Last updated on March 28th, 2024 at 07:13 pm
Title 46—Shipping–Volume 6
CHAPTER I—COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)
SUBCHAPTER Q—EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL
PARTS 156-158 [RESERVED]
PART 159—APPROVAL OF EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS
Subpart 159.001—General
§ 159.001-1 Purpose.
(a) This part contains the procedures for the approval of equipment and materials when that equipment or material is inspected or tested by an independent laboratory or by the manufacturer of the equipment or material.
(b) The regulations in this subchapter (parts 159 through 164) have preemptive effect over State or local regulations in the same field.
§ 159.001-2 Right of appeal.
Any person directly affected by a decision or action taken under this subchapter, by or on behalf of the Coast Guard, may appeal to the Deputy for Operations Policy and Capabilities (CG-DCO-D) as provided in § 1.03-15 of this chapter.
§ 159.001-3 Definitions.
As used in this part:
Classification society means an organization involved in the inspection of ships and ship equipment, and which, as determined by the Commandant, meets the standards in IMO Resolution A.739(18).
Independent laboratory means an organization which meets the standards for acceptance in § 159.010-3 of this part, and which is accepted by the Coast Guard for performing certain tests and inspections. In addition to commercial testing laboratories, the Commandant may also accept classification societies and agencies of governments that are involved in the inspection and testing of marine safety equipment that meet the requirements of § 159.010-3.
Marine Equipment Directive (MarED) means the European Community Council Directive 96/98/EC of December 20, 1996 on marine equipment, as amended.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is an agreement between the Coast Guard and a laboratory that specifies the approval functions a recognized independent laboratory performs for the Coast Guard and the recognized independent laboratory’s working arrangements with the Coast Guard.
Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) means an agreement between the United States and other Maritime Administrations or organized associations, such as the European Community and the European Free Trade Association that specifies equipment approval and monitoring processes through which parties of the MRA agree to approve equipment on behalf of all parties. An MRA allows reciprocal approval and acceptance of equipment between all parties.
Recognized independent laboratory means an independent laboratory which meets the standards of § 159.010-3, and is accepted by the Coast Guard to perform certain equipment approval functions on behalf of the Coast Guard, as described in a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the laboratory and the Coast Guard in accordance with § 159.010-7(b).
§ 159.001-4 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG-4), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org.
(1) Resolution A.739(18), Guidelines for the Authorization of Organizations Acting on Behalf of the Administration, November 22, 1993, IBR approved for § 159.001-3.
(2) [Reserved]
(c) International Organization for Standardization, ISO Central Secretariat BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, +41 22 749 01 11, http://www.iso.org.
(1) ISO/IEC 17025:2005(E), International Standard: General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, Second edition, 15 May 2005 (“ISO/IEC 17025”), IBR approved for § 159.010-3(a).
(2) [Reserved]
§ 159.001-5 Correspondence and applications.
Unless otherwise specified, all correspondence and applications in connection with approval and testing of equipment and materials must be addressed to: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
§ 159.001-7 Substituted procedures.
(a) The Commandant may substitute the procedures in this part for the procedures in any other part of this subchapter. Each person known to be affected by the substitution shall be informed that the procedures in this part apply.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.001-9 OMB Control Numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.
(a) Purpose. This section collects and displays the control numbers assigned to information collection and recordkeeping requirements in this subchapter by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). The Coast Guard intends that this section comply with the requirements of 44 U.S.C. 3507(f) which requires that agencies display a current control number assigned by the Director of the OMB for each approved agency information collection requirement.
(b) Display.
| 46 CFR part or section where identified or described | Current OMB control No. |
|---|---|
| § 159.007-11.13 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.002-5 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.047-5 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.048-5 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.050-5 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.052-7 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.053-4 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.055-4 | 1625-0035 |
| § 160.064-6 | 1625-0035 |
| §§ 161.001 through 161.010 | 1625-0035 |
| § 161.171-15 | 1625-0035 |
| § 161.171-23 | 1625-0035 |
| §§ 162.001 through 161.018 | 1625-0035 |
| § 162.041 | 1625-0035 |
| § 162.043 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.012-13 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.019-5 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.019-7 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.019-9 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.019-13 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.019-15 | 1625-0035 |
| § 164.023-15 | 1625-0035 |
Subpart 159.003—Approvals Under Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)
§ 159.003-1 Purpose.
This subpart contains the procedures for obtaining Coast Guard approval under a Mutual Recognition Agreement.
§ 159.003-3 Acceptance of foreign approvals under a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA).
A Coast Guard approval issued by a foreign authority in accordance with the provisions of an effective MRA is acceptable for any application where the regulations in this chapter require Coast Guard approval.
§ 159.003-5 Approval by the Coast Guard under a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA).
(a) Manufacturers must specify in writing that foreign approval under an MRA is requested.
(b) The Coast Guard Certificate of Approval will clearly identify as specified in the MRA that the product is approved to the foreign requirements under the MRA.
§ 159.003-7 Multiple approval numbers.
A product will not be issued a Coast Guard approval number by the Coast Guard if it already holds a Coast Guard approval number issued by a foreign authority under a Mutual Recognition Agreement.
§ 159.003-9 Products covered by Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs).
A complete list of equipment and materials approved by the Coast Guard under an MRA, as well as detailed information on marking and identifying items approved by foreign authorities under an MRA, is available online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil/Equipment/Default.aspx.
Subpart 159.005—Approval Procedures
§ 159.005-1 Purpose.
(a) This subpart contains the procedures by which the Coast Guard approves equipment and materials under other subparts of this subchapter that require—
(1) Preapproval inspections and tests by an independent laboratory;
(2) Preapproval inspections and tests by the manufacturer; or
(3) No preapproval inspections or tests.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.005-3 Application for preapproval review.
(a) Each manufacturer of equipment or material who seeks Coast Guard approval under an applicable subpart must submit an application that meets § 159.005-5 to the Commandant unless—
(1) The subpart contains a list of independent laboratories;
(2) The subpart does not require Coast Guard review prior to testing; and
(3) The manufacturer meets the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) If the applicable subpart contains a list of independent laboratories and does not specifically require preapproval review by the Coast Guard, the manufacturer may have the tests performed by a listed laboratory and submit the report required by § 159.005-11 to the Commandant.
§ 159.005-5 Preapproval review: Contents of application.
(a) Each application must contain the following:
(1) The name and address of the manufacturer and the factory where the finished equipment or material is produced.
(2) One or more of the following as required by the applicable subpart:
(i) Two sets of general plans of the equipment or material.
(ii) Two sets of specifications of the equipment or material.
(iii) A sample of the equipment or material accompanied by a written description of its components.
(3) A statement signed by the manufacturer or the manufacturer’s representative, that an official representative of the Coast Guard is allowed access to the place of manufacture and to the place of test to verify the information submitted in the application or to witness tests.
(4) If the material submitted under paragraph (a)(2) of this section contains confidential commercial information that could cause substantial competitive harm if released to the public, a statement to the effect that the material is considered privileged and confidential under exemption (b)(4) of the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552), and that it should not be released to anyone other than the original submitter.
(b) If the equipment or material is required by the subpart to be inspected and tested by an independent laboratory, the application must contain the following additional information:
(1) The name and address of a laboratory that meets § 159.010-3(a) and that is selected by the manufacturer to perform or supervise the inspections and tests.
(2) If the laboratory has not been accepted previously for inspecting and testing the manufacturer’s equipment or material under the applicable subpart, the completed application under § 159.010-5(a).
§ 159.005-7 Preapproval review: Coast Guard action.
(a) If approval inspections and tests are required under the applicable subpart, the Commandant takes the following action:
(1) If the Commandant determines from the application that the equipment or material appears to meet the design requirements of an applicable subpart or appears to have equivalent performance characteristics, and that the laboratory meets § 159.010-3(a), the Commandant informs the manufacturer that the required approval inspections and tests may be conducted.
(2) If the Commandant determines from the application for approval that the equipment or material does not appear to meet the design requirements of an applicable subpart or does not appear to have equivalent performance characteristics, or that the laboratory does not meet § 159.010-3(a), the Commandant informs the manufacturer of the reason why the equipment or material is not acceptable for approval inspections and tests or why the laboratory is not accepted.
(b) If no approval inspections or tests are required under the applicable subpart, the Commandant—
(1) Takes action in accordance with § 159.005-13; or
(2) Informs the manufacturer of additional information required before action under § 159.005-13 can be taken.
(c) An item of equipment or material that does not meet all of the requirements of this subchapter for design or performance may be approved by the Commandant if it has equivalent performance characteristics. The item has equivalent performance characteristics if the application and any approval tests prescribed by the Commandant, in place of or in addition to the approval tests required by this subchapter, demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Commandant that the item is at least as effective as one that meets the requirements of this subchapter.
§ 159.005-9 Approval inspections and tests.
(a) Each manufacturer of equipment or material that is required to be subjected to approval inspections and tests must—
(1) If the applicable subpart requires the equipment or material to be inspected or tested, have the approval inspections or tests performed;
(2) If the applicable subpart requires the equipment or material to be inspected or tested by an independent laboratory, insure that a laboratory accepted by the Commandant performs or supervises the approval inspections or tests;
(3) Bear all costs of the approval inspections and tests;
(4) If requested, advise the Commandant of the time, date, and place of each approval inspection or test, or both, before the inspection or test is performed; and
(5) After completion of the approval inspections and tests, submit to the Commandant—
(i) A test report that meets § 159.005-11;
(ii) At least two sets of specifications of the material as inspected or tested or at least two sets of plans of the equipment as inspected or tested that meet § 159.005-12; and
(iii) A description of the quality control procedures that will be in effect during the production of the equipment or material.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.005-11 Approval inspection or test report: Contents.
(a) Each approval inspection or test report must contain the following:
(1) The name of the manufacturer.
(2) If the inspections or tests are performed or supervised by an independent laboratory, the name and address of the laboratory.
(3) The trade name, product designation (such as model numbers), and a brief description of the equipment or material inspected or tested.
(4) The time, date, and place of each approval inspection and test.
(5) The name and title of each person performing, supervising, and witnessing the approval inspections or tests.
(6) The performance data for each test required in the applicable subpart, including a description of each failure.
(7) A description or photographs of the procedures and apparatus used in the inspections or tests, or a reference to another document that contains an appropriate description or photographs.
(8) At least one photograph that shows an overall view of the equipment or material submitted for approval and other photographs that show—
(i) Design details; and
(ii) Each occurrence of damage or deformation to the equipment or material that occurred during the approval tests.
(b) Each inspection or test report must bear an attestation that the inspections or tests were conducted as required by the applicable subpart and that the report contains no known errors, omissions, or false statements. The attestation must be signed by:
(1) The manufacturer or manufacturer’s representative, if the inspection or tests are conducted by the manufacturer; or
(2) The chief officer of the laboratory, or the chief officer’s representative, if the inspection or tests were conducted by an independent laboratory.
A false representation on a report is a ground for suspension or withdrawal of approval of the equipment or material. A false representation is also punishable as a crime under 18 U.S.C. 1001.
§ 159.005-12 Plans.
(a) Each set of plans under § 159.005-9(a)(5)(ii) for equipment must include the following:
(1) An assembly drawing or general arrangement drawing.
(2) A description of each component of the equipment that includes the name, the manufacturer, and the part identification of each component in—
(i) A detail drawing;
(ii) A bill of material or parts list; or
(iii) A specification for that component.
(3) A list of the drawings and specifications in the set of plans, including each revision, and the date of that list.
(4) If a manufacturer’s instructions or manual is required in the applicable subpart, a copy of the instructions or manual.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.005-13 Equipment or material: Approval.
(a) If from analysis of the material and data required to be submitted under this subpart, the Commandant determines that the equipment or material meets the applicable subpart or has equivalent performance characteristics in accordance with § 159.005-7(c), the Commandant—
(1) Approves the equipment or material;
(2) Issues a certificate of approval to the manufacturer under § 2.75-5 of this chapter;
(3) Retains one set of approved plans and returns all others to the manufacturer; and
(4) Publishes a record of the approval in the Coast Guard Maritime Information Exchange (CGMIX). A listing of current and formerly approved equipment and materials may be found on the Internet at: http://cgmix.uscg.mil/equipment.
(b) If from analysis of the material and data submitted the Commandant determines that the equipment or material does not meet the applicable subpart, the Commandant informs the manufacturer of the reason why that equipment or material does not meet the subpart.
(c) If an independent laboratory performs the approval inspections or tests, the Commandant will notify the laboratory of the actions taken under paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, unless the manufacturer specifically requests that the laboratory not be notified.
§ 159.005-15 Approval of equipment or material: Suspensions, withdrawals, and terminations.
(a) The Commandant suspends an approval issued under this subchapter in accordance with § 2.75-40 of this chapter, withdraws an approval issued under this subchapter in accordance with § 2.75-50(a) of this chapter, and terminates an approval issued under this subchapter in accordance with § 2.75-50(b) of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 159.007—Production Inspection and Tests of Approved Equipment and Materials
§ 159.007-1 Purpose.
(a) This subpart contains the procedures under which production inspections and tests of approved equipment or materials are to be performed under this subchapter.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.007-3 Production inspections and tests: Independent laboratory’s procedures.
(a) The manufacturer may follow an independent laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests if those procedures—
(1) Meet or exceed the production inspection and test requirements of the applicable subpart or are equivalent to those inspections and tests;
(2) Include labeling or marking the equipment or material when the equipment or material meets the inspection and test procedures of the laboratory; and
(3) Are accepted by the Commandant under § 159.007-7(b).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.007-5 Production inspections and tests: Application for acceptance.
(a) If the applicable subpart requires production inspections and tests by an independent laboratory, the manufacturer must select a laboratory and submit an application for acceptance that meets § 159.010-5(a) unless the laboratory—
(1) Is listed in the subpart; or
(2) Is accepted by the Commandant for approval inspections and tests of the equipment or material under § 159.005-7(a)(1).
(b) If the manufacturer wants to follow the laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests instead of meeting the Coast Guard procedures under this subchapter, the application must contain a description of those procedures.
§ 159.007-7 Application for acceptance for production inspections and tests: Coast Guard action.
(a) From the information submitted with the application, the Commandant determines whether or not the laboratory is accepted for production inspections and tests. The Commandant informs the manufacturer of the results of this determination, if the Commandant does not accept a laboratory, the reason for the disapproval will be given.
(b) From the description of the laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests, the Commandant determines whether or not those procedures are accepted. The Commandant informs the manufacturer of the results of this determination. If the Commandant does not accept the laboratory’s procedures, the reasons why they are not accepted will be given.
§ 159.007-9 Production inspections and tests.
(a) If the applicable subpart requires the production inspections and tests to be performed or supervised by an independent laboratory, the manufacturer shall insure that all required production inspections and tests are performed or supervised by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant.
(b) If the applicable subpart does not require an independent laboratory to perform the production inspections and tests, the manufacturer shall have those inspections and tests performed.
(c) Unless alternative procedures have been accepted by the Commandant under § 159.007-3 each production inspection and test must be performed or supervised in accordance with the applicable subpart.
(d) The manufacturer shall admit a Coast Guard inspector to any place where approved equipment is manufactured, for the purpose of verifying that the equipment is being manufactured in accordance with the approved plans and the requirements of this subchapter.
§ 159.007-11 Production inspections and tests: Yearly report.
(a) When the manufacturer uses the production inspection and test procedures in an applicable subpart he must submit a yearly report. The report is not required when inspection and test procedures approved under § 159.007-3 are used.
(b) The report must include the following:
(1) A list of all inspections and tests performed;
(2) A summary of the results of each group of inspections or tests;
(3) A detailed description of any test failures; and
(4) A statement whether or not all required tests were performed.
§ 159.007-13 Production inspections and tests: Records.
(a) The manufacturer must have a completed record with the following information for each production inspection and test:
(1) The time, date and place of each inspection and test.
(2) The name and title of each person performing, supervising and witnessing the inspections or tests.
(3) The performance data for each test required in the applicable subpart, including a description of each failure.
(4) A description or photographs of the procedures and apparatus used in the inspections or tests.
(b) The manufacturer must retain each record under this section for at least 60 months after the month in which the inspection or test was conducted.
(c) The records must be made available for examination by the Commandant upon request.
Subpart 159.010—Independent Laboratory: Acceptance, Recognition, and Termination
§ 159.010-1 Purpose.
This subpart contains the following:
(a) The standards and procedures under which the Coast Guard accepts an independent laboratory that a manufacturer proposes to use.
(b) The standards and procedures under which a laboratory is accepted as a recognized laboratory under applicable subparts.
(c) The circumstances under which the acceptance or recognition of a laboratory is terminated.
§ 159.010-3 Independent laboratory: Standards for acceptance.
(a) To be accepted by the Coast Guard as an independent laboratory, a laboratory must—
(1) Be engaged, as a regular part of its business, in performing inspections and tests that are the same as or similar to the inspections and tests required in the applicable subpart;
(2) Possess or have access to the apparatus, facilities, personnel, and calibrated instruments that are necessary to inspect and test the equipment or material under the applicable subpart. In addition, for testing conducted on or after July 1, 2012, on equipment subject to SOLAS requirements, they must have ISO/IEC 17025 (incorporated by reference, see § 159.001-4) accreditation from an accreditation body that is a full member of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) or a recognized accreditation body by the National Cooperation for Laboratory Accreditation (NACLA);
(3) Not be owned or controlled by—
(i) The manufacturer of the equipment or material to be inspected or tested under this subchapter or any manufacturer of similar equipment or material;
(ii) A vendor of the equipment or material to be inspected or tested under this subchapter or a vendor of similar equipment or material; or
(iii) A supplier of materials to the manufacturer;
(4) Not be dependent on Coast Guard acceptance under this subchapter to remain in business; and
(5) Not advertise or promote the manufacturer’s equipment or material that the laboratory inspects and tests under this subchapter.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.010-5 Independent laboratory: Application for acceptance.
(a) Each application for acceptance of an organization as an independent laboratory must contain the following:
(1) The name and address of the organization.
(2) A list of the equipment or material that the organization would inspect, or test, or both, under this subchapter.
(3) A description of the organization’s experience and its qualifications for conducting the inspections and tests required in the applicable subpart.
(4) A description of the apparatus and facilities available to the organization for conducting those inspections and tests.
(5) If instruments are used in the required tests and inspections, a description of the instrument calibration program applying to those instruments.
(6) The position titles of personnel who are to perform, supervise, or witness those inspections or tests, along with the training and experience required for personnel in those positions.
(7) A statement signed by the chief officer of the organization or the chief officer’s representative, that an official representative of the Coast Guard is allowed access upon request to the place where tests and inspections take place, to verify the information submitted in the application, or to witness tests and inspections.
(b) Each application for acceptance as an independent laboratory that is not submitted by an agency of a state or another national government, or by a classification society, must also contain the following:
(1) The name and address of each subsidiary and division of the organization, or a statement that none are involved in the testing or manufacturing of equipment approved under this subchapter.
(2) The name, title, address, and principal business activity of each of the organization’s officers and directors, and the name, address, and principal business activity of each person, company, or corporation that owns at least three-percent interest in the organization or in a company or corporation that controls the organization.
§ 159.010-7 Recognized independent laboratory: Memorandum of Understanding.
(a) Only laboratories that have entered into an MOU with the Coast Guard may perform the functions of a recognized laboratory under this chapter.
(b) An independent laboratory seeking to become a recognized independent laboratory must submit a signed MOU to the Commandant that includes—
(1) A statement of purpose;
(2) An identification and description of the parties involved;
(3) A description of the problem resolution and appeals processes;
(4) A description of the process for measuring effectiveness and efficiency of the program under the MOU;
(5) The effective date of the MOU and terms for its termination;
(6) A statement to the effect that the MOU is not an exclusive agreement between the recognized independent laboratory and the Coast Guard;
(7) An agreement to conduct comparison testing with other recognized laboratories as directed by the Coast Guard, no more often than twice each year, with the laboratory bearing the cost of sample acquisition and testing;
(8) A statement as to how the costs of implementing the MOU will be borne; and
(9) A description of each party’s responsibilities for—
(i) Equipment review and approval;
(ii) Coast Guard oversight of the recognized independent laboratory’s procedures and processes;
(iii) Coordination between the parties;
(iv) Developing and maintaining regulations and standards;
(v) Handling review and approval of new and novel items not anticipated by existing regulations and standards;
(vi) Testing and inspection facilities and procedures;
(vii) Production quality control; and
(viii) Maintenance of records.
(c) The signature on the MOU required by paragraph (b) of this section must be that of the chief officer of the independent laboratory or the chief officer’s representative. The Commandant or an authorized representative of the Commandant will review the MOU to ensure that it contains the information required by paragraph (b) of this section, and that the substantive provisions submitted in compliance with that paragraph are equivalent to those contained in other MOUs signed by the Commandant. If the Commandant determines that the MOU is acceptable and the independent laboratory is capable of carrying out the equipment approval functions identified in the MOU in accordance with all appropriate requirements, the Commandant or authorized representative may at his discretion sign the MOU. Where qualitative tests or determinations are required for approval or follow-up, provision must be made for conducting comparison tests with other recognized laboratories.
(d) Copies of MOUs signed by the Commandant in accordance with this part and of lists of independent laboratories which have been accepted as recognized laboratories but which have not yet been added to the lists included in this subchapter may be obtained at the address listed in § 159.001-5.
§ 159.010-11 Changes in the laboratory’s qualifications.
(a) If any of the information submitted under § 159.010-5(a) changes, the laboratory shall notify the Commandant in writing of each change within 30 days after the change has occurred.
(b) If any change in the independent laboratory occurs which affects its performance under the MOU required under § 159.010-7, the laboratory shall notify the Commandant in writing within 30 days after the change occurs. The Commandant may terminate the MOU, or may require amendments or revisions.
§ 159.010-15 Contracting inspections and tests or transferrals to another laboratory or person.
(a) No independent laboratory may contract or transfer to another person or laboratory the performance or supervision of inspections or tests, or both, required under an applicable subpart for which it is accepted or listed unless—
(1) A request in writing regarding the contract or transfer is submitted to the Commandant before the contract is executed or the transfer is completed; and
(2) The Commandant notifies the laboratory in writing that the contract or the transfer is allowed.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 159.010-17 Termination of acceptance or recognition of an independent laboratory.
The acceptance or recognition of a laboratory terminates if the laboratory—
(a) Requests termination;
(b) Is no longer in business;
(c) Knowingly fails to perform or supervise an inspection or test, or both, as required in an applicable subpart;
(d) Knowingly attests to the lack of errors, omissions, or false statement of an approval test report that contains errors omissions, or false statements;
(e) Does not meet the requirements of § 159.010-3(a);
(f) Does not comply with § 159.010-11;
(g) Contracts or transfers the performance or supervision of required inspections or tests to another laboratory or person without the approval of the Commandant; or
(h) Fails to, or in the opinion of the Commandant is unable to, carry out its responsibilities under an MOU required by § 159.010-7.
§ 159.010-19 Termination of acceptance or recognition: Procedure.
(a) If the Coast Guard receives evidence of grounds for termination of acceptance or recognition of an independent laboratory under § 159.010-17, the Commandant will notify the laboratory that termination is under consideration. The laboratory may submit written comments to the Commandant within 21 days of receipt of the notification. The Commandant will take all timely written comments into account before taking final action in the matter, and in no case will the Commandant take final action until at least 30 days after the laboratory has received the notification. Any final action taken by the Commandant is final agency action on the matter.
(b) If a deficiency could materially affect the validity of an approval issued under an applicable subpart, the Commandant may temporarily suspend the acceptance of the laboratory and may direct the holder of the certificate of approval to cease claiming that the items tested or inspected by the laboratory are Coast Guard approved, pending a final decision in the matter.
PART 160—LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT
Subpart 160.001—Life Preservers, General
§ 160.001-1 Scope.
(a) This subpart contains the general:
(1) Characteristics of life preservers;
(2) Approval procedures for life preservers; and
(3) Production oversight requirements for life preservers.
(b) Other subparts in this part specify the detailed requirements for standard type life preservers and may supplement the requirements in this subpart.
§ 160.001-2 General characteristics of life preservers.
(a) A life preserver must be of such construction, material and workmanship that it can perform its intended function in all weathers and at all temperatures which may be expected in the normal usage of the life preserver. All components used in the construction of a life preserver must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of the chapter.
(b) A life preserver must be capable of supporting a minimum of 22 pounds in fresh water for 48 hours.
(c) Life preservers which depend upon loose or granulated material for buoyancy are prohibited.
(d) A life preserver must be:
(1) Simple in design;
(2) Capable of being:
(i) Worn inside-out,
(ii) worn clearly in only one way, or
(iii) Donned correctly without demonstration, instructions, or assistance by at least 75 percent of persons unfamiliar with the design; and
(3) Capable of being quickly adjusted for a secure fit to the body of wearers for which it is intended.
(e) A life preserver shall support the wearer in the water in an upright or slightly backward position, and shall provide support to the head so that the face of an unconscious or exhausted person is held above the water.
(f) A life preserver shall be capable of turning the wearer, upon entering the water, to a safe flotation position as described in paragraph (e) of this section.
(g) A life preserver shall not be appreciably deteriorated or rendered unable to perform its intended function by common oils or oil products.
(h) A life preserver shall be of a highly visible color, such as Indian Orange, International Orange, or Scarlet Munsell Red.
(i) A life preserver shall be of such construction, materials, and workmanship as to be at least equivalent to a standard type life preserver described in detail by other subparts in this part.
(j) Each thread in a life preserver regulated under subparts 160.002, 160.005 and 160.055 of this part must meet the requirements of a Federal or military specification in table 164.023-5(a) of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
§ 160.001-3 Procedure for approval.
(a) General. Designs of life preservers are approved only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) Each application for approval of a life preserver must contain the information specified in § 159.005-5 of this chapter. The application and, except as provided in paragraphs (c) and (d)(2) of this section, a prototype life preserver must be submitted to the Commandant for preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, the Commandant may waive the preapproval review under §§ 159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this chapter.
(c) If the life preserver is of a standard design, as described by subpart 160.002, 160.005, or 160.055, the application:
(1) Must include the following: A statement of any exceptions to the standard plans and specifications, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and/or bill of materials.
(2) Need not include: The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2).
(d) If the life preserver is of a non-standard design, the application must include the following:
(1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by § 159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
(2) The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through (iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype PFD sample to the Commandant.
(3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an independent laboratory, that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coast Guard under § 159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-water testing of personal flotation devices, showing equivalence to the standard design’s performance in all material respects.
(4) Any special purpose(s) for which the life preserver is designed and the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
(5) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with during production.
(6) The text of any optional marking to be included on the life preserver in addition to the markings required by the applicable approval subpart.
(7) For any conditionally approved life preserver, the intended approval condition(s).
(e) The description of quality control procedures required by § 159.005-9 of this chapter may be omitted if the manufacturer’s planned quality control procedures meet the requirements of those accepted by the Commandant for the independent laboratory performing production inspections and tests.
(f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant waive any test prescribed for approval under the applicable subpart. To request a waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the laboratory described in § 159.010, one of the following:
(1) Satisfactory test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar design as determined by the Commandant.
(2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, it is not possible for the PFD to fail that test.
§ 160.001-5 Production oversight.
(a) General. Production tests and inspections must be conducted in accordance with this section, subpart 159.007 of this chapter, and if conducted by an independent laboratory, the independent laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests as accepted by the Commandant. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subchapter.
(b) Oversight. In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter and the accepted laboratory procedures for production inspections and tests, each manufacturer of a life preserver and each laboratory inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
(1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must—
(i) Perform all tests and examinations necessary to show compliance with this subpart and subpart under which the life preserver is approved on each lot before any inspector’s tests and inspection of the lot;
(ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product; and
(iii) Allow an inspector to take samples of completed units or of component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests relating to the safety of the design.
(2) Laboratory. An inspector from the accepted laboratory shall oversee production in accordance with the laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests accepted by the Commandant. During production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any production test or inspection unless—
(i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and
(ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer’s production methods and any revisions to those methods.
(3) At least quarterly, the inspector shall check the manufacturer’s compliance with the company’s quality control procedures, examine the manufacturer’s required records, and observe the manufacturer perform each of the required production tests.
(c) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and apparatus for conducting the tests and inspections necessary to determine compliance of life preservers with this subpart. The manufacturer shall provide means to secure any test that is not continuously observed, such as the 48 hour buoyancy test. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked in accordance with the test equipment manufacturer’s recommendation and interval but not less than at least once every year.
(d) Lots. A lot may not consist of more than 1000 life preservers. A lot number must be assigned to each group of life preservers produced. Lots must be numbered serially. A new lot must be started whenever any change in materials or a revision to a production method is made, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the PFD manufacturer to determine the supplier’s identifying information for the component lot.
(e) Samples. (1) From each lot of life preservers, manufacturers shall randomly select a number of samples from completed units at least equal to the applicable number required by table 160.001-5(e) for buoyancy testing. Additional samples must be selected for any tests, examinations, and inspections required by the laboratory’s production inspections and tests procedures.
Table 160.001-5(
| Lot size | Number of life preservers in sample |
|---|---|
| 100 and under | 1 |
| 101 to 200 | 2 |
| 201 to 300 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 4 |
| 501 to 750 | 6 |
| 751 to 1000 | 8 |
(2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample life preserver failed the buoyancy test, the sample shall consist of not less than ten specimen life preservers to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (f) of this section.
(f) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the life preservers must be determined by measuring the upward force exerted by the individual submerged unit. The buoyancy measurement must be made at the end of the 24 or 48 hours of submersion, as specified in the applicable approval subpart, during which period the pad inserts must not be disturbed.
(g) Buoyancy required. The buoyancy must meet the requirements of the applicable approval subpart.
(h) Lot inspection. On each lot, the laboratory inspector shall perform a final lot inspection to be satisfied that the life preservers meet this subpart. Each lot must demonstrate—
(1) First quality workmanship;
(2) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components, such as body straps, closures, tie tapes, and drawstrings, are as specified in the approved plans and specifications;
(3) Compliance with the marking requirements in the applicable approval subpart; and
(4) The information pamphlet specified in 33 CFR part 181 subpart G, if required, is securely attached to the device, with the PFD selection information visible and accessible prior to purchase.
(i) Lot acceptance. When the independent laboratory has determined that the life preservers in the lot are of a type officially approved in the name of the company, and that such life preservers meet the requirements of this subpart, they shall be plainly marked in waterproof ink with the independent laboratory’s name or identifying mark.
(j) Lot rejection. Each nonconforming unit must be rejected. If three or more nonconforming units are rejected for the same kind of defect, lot inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected. The inspector must discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if examination of individual units or the records for the lot shows noncompliance with either this subchapter or the laboratory’s or the manufacturer’s quality control procedures. A rejected unit or lot may be resubmitted for testing and inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each defective unit or, if authorized by the laboratory, reworks the unit or lot to correct the defect. A rejected lot or rejected unit may not be sold or offered for sale under the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is Coast Guard-approved.
Subpart 160.002—Life Preservers, Kapok, Adult and Child (Jacket Type), Models 3 and 5
§ 160.002-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Military Specifications:
(2) Federal Specification:
(3) Federal Standards:
(4) Coast Guard specifications:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date life preservers are manufactured, form a part of this specification:
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of approval. The Coast Guard specifications and plans may be obtained upon request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The Federal specifications and standards may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC, 20407. The Military specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(d) [Reserved]
§ 160.002-2 Size and models.
Each life preserver specified in this subpart is to be a:
(a) Model 3, adult, 24 ounces kapok; or
(b) Model 5, child, 16 ounces kapok.
§ 160.002-3 Materials.
All components used in the construction of the life preserver must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter and the following requirements apply to individual components;
(a) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
(b) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color Association of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y., or Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, and the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After dyeing, the drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this section. The finished goods shall contain not more than 2 percent residual sizing or other non-fibrous material, shall weigh not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of not less than 72 in the warp and 54 in the filling, and shall have a breaking strength (grab method) of not less than 105 pounds in the warp and 70 pounds in the filling. If it is proposed to treat the fabric with a fire-retardant substance, full details shall be submitted to the Commandant for determination as to what samples will be needed for testing.
(c) Tunnel strip. The tunnel strip shall be made of cotton drill conforming to the requirements for the envelope cover.
(d) Pad covering. The covering for the kapok pad inserts shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006 inch in thickness meeting the requirements of specification L-P-375 for Type I film Type II, Class 1 film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness will also be acceptable.
(e) Tie tapes and drawstrings. The tie tapes at the neck and the lower drawstrings shall be made of 1
(f) Body strap. The body strap shall be made of one-inch cotton webbing having a minimum breaking strength of 400 pounds. One-inch cotton webbing meeting the requirements of specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIb webbing is acceptable. The complete body strap assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds. The body strap shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this section.
(g) Dee rings and snap hook. The dee rings and snap hook shall be of brass, bronze, or stainless steel, and of the approximate size indicated by Dwg. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1. The snap hook spring shall be phosphor bronze or other suitable corrosion-resistant material. Dee ring ends shall be welded to form a continuous ring. The webbing opening of the snap hook shall be a continuous ring.
(h) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape shall be made of
(i) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(j) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be dihydroxydichloro- diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1.00 percent of the dry weight of the finished goods.
§ 160.002-4 Construction.
(a) General. This specification covers life preservers which essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing pockets in which are enclosed pads of buoyant material, the life preserver being fitted with tapes and webbing to provide complete reversibility, proper adjustment for close fit to the bodies of various size wearers, and proper flotation characteristics to hold the wearer in an upright backward position with head and face out of water.
(b) Envelope. The envelope shall be of not more than two pieces, one piece for either side, cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Dwg. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, joined by seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. A drawstring tunnel shall be formed by stitching a strip of the tunnel strip material as shown on the drawing. The ends of the tunnel strip shall be tucked under the reinforcing tape stitched around the end openings so there is no direct access to the pads from the outside. Three pockets shall be formed for insertion of the kapok pads. The two front pads shall be removable from the envelope when portions of the lower longitudinal seam are opened, and the back pad shall be removable when a portion of one armhole seam is opened.
(c) Pad inserts—(1) Forming, sealing, and distribution of kapok. The buoyant pad inserts shall be formed from two pieces of film cut to the patterns shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 2, for adult size, and Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 2, for child size, which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when one inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches per minute. The pad inserts shall be filled with kapok distributed as follows:
Table 160.002-4 (
| Model 3 (minimum) | Model 5 (minimum) | |
|---|---|---|
| Front pad (2): | ||
| Lower section | 5.25 oz. each | 3.50 oz. each. |
| Upper section | 3.75 oz. each | 2.50 oz. each. |
| Back Pad | 6.00 oz. | 4.00 oz. |
| Total | 24.00 oz. | 16.00 oz. |
(2) Displacement of pad inserts. The volume of the finished individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide buoyancy as set forth in the following table when tested in accordance with the method set forth in § 160.002-5(d), except that the period of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement of the pads:
Table 160.002-4(
| Model 3 | Model 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Front pads | 12 | 6 |
| Back pads | 8 lbs. each ± | 4 |
(d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall extend not less than 14 inches from the edge of the adult life preserver and not less than 12 inches from the edge of the child life preserver. They shall be stitched through both thicknesses of the envelope as shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, or by the alternate stitching shown on Sheet 1A. The free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with section G-G of Sheet 1.
(e) Drawstrings. The drawstrings at the waist shall extend not less than 8 inches from the edge of the life preserver and shall be secured in the drawstring tunnel as shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, or by the alternate stitching shown on Sheet 1A. The free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with section G-G of Sheet 1.
(f) Body strap. The body strap shall be fitted with a single Dee ring on one end with the arrangement of a snap hook and pre-threaded double Dee rings as shown on Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, on the other. The body strap shall be stitched as shown on the drawings, and the edge of the single Dee ring shall be 20 inches from the center line for adult size and 15 inches for child size.
(g) Reinforcing tape. Binding tape shall be stitched approximately 15 inches for adult jackets and 12 inches for child jackets around the back of the neck, and also around the openings of the drawstring tunnel and around the bottom of the armholes, as indicated by the drawings.
(h) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal standard No. 751 and there shall be not less than 7, nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
(i) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.002-5 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
(a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector in accordance with this section and § 160.001-5.
(b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life preserver shall be determined according to § 160.001-5(f) of this part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
(c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.
§ 160.002-6 Marking.
Each life preserver must have the following clearly marked in waterproof ink on a front section:
(a) In letters three-quarters of an inch or more in height:
(1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
(b) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
§ 160.002-7 Procedure for approval.
General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, as explained in § 160.001-3 of this part.
Subpart 160.005—Life Preservers, Fibrous Glass, Adult and Child (Jacket Type), Models 52 and 56
§ 160.005-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Federal Specification:
(2) Federal Standards:
(3) Military Specification:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date life preservers are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of approval. The Coast Guard plans may be obtained upon request from the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The Federal specifications and standards may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407. The Military specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.005-2 Size and model.
Each life preserver specified in this subpart is a:
(a) Model 52, adult, 46 ounces fibrous glass; or
(b) Model 56, child, 30 ounces fibrous glass.
§ 160.005-3 Materials.
All components used in the construction of a life preserver must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter and the following requirements apply to individual components:
(a) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall be all new material complying with the requirements of Specification MIL-B-2766.
(b) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color Association of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y., or Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, and the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After dyeing, the drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this section. The finished goods shall contain not more than 2 percent residual sizing or other nonfibrous material, shall weigh not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of not less than 72 in the warp and 54 in the filling, and shall have a breaking strength (grab method) of not less than 105 pounds in the warp and 70 pounds in the filling. If it is proposed to treat the fabric with a fire-retardant substance, full details shall be submitted to the Commandant for determination as to what samples will be needed for testing.
(c) Tunnel strip. The tunnel strip shall be made of cotton drill conforming to the requirements for the envelope cover.
(d) Pad covering. The covering for the fibrous glass pad inserts shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006 inch in thickness meeting the requirements of specification L-P-375 for Type I film. Type II, Class 1 film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness will also be acceptable.
(e) Tie tapes and drawstrings. The tie tapes at the neck and the lower drawstrings shall be made of 1
(f) Body strap. The body strap shall be made of one-inch cotton webbing having a minimum breaking strength of 400 pounds. One-inch cotton webbing meeting the requirements of specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIb webbing is acceptable. The complete body strap assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds. The body strap shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this section.
(g) Dee rings and snap hook. The dee rings and snap hook shall be brass, bronze, or stainless steel, and of the approximate size indicated by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1. The snap hook spring shall be phosphor bronze or other suitable corrosion-resistant material. Dee ring ends shall be welded to form a continuous ring. The webbing opening of the snap hook shall be a continuous ring.
(h) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape shall be made of
(i) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(j) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be dihydroxydichloro- diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1.00 percent of the dry weight of the finished goods.
§ 160.005-4 Construction.
(a) General. This specification covers life preservers which essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing pockets in which are enclosed pads of buoyant material, the life preserver being fitted with tapes and webbing to provide complete reversibility, proper adjustment for close fit to the bodies of various size wearers, and proper flotation characteristics to hold the wearer in an upright backward position with head and face out of water.
(b) Envelope. The envelope shall be of not more than two pieces, one piece for either side, cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 4, for child size, joined by seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. A drawstring tunnel shall be formed by stitching a strip of the tunnel strip material as shown by the drawing. The ends of the tunnel strip shall be tucked under the reinforcing tape stitched around the end openings so there is no direct access to the pads from the outside. Three pockets shall be formed for insertion of the pads. The two front pads shall be removable from the envelope when portions of the lower longitudinal seam are opened, and the back pad shall be removable when a portion of one armhole seam is opened.
(c) Pad inserts—(1) Forming, sealing, and distribution of fibrous glass. The buoyant pad inserts shall be formed from two pieces of film cut to the patterns shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 3, for adult size, and Sheet 5, for child size, which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when 1-inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches per minute. The pad inserts shall be filled with fibrous glass distributed as follows:
Table 160.005-4(
| Model 52 (minimum) | Model 56 (minimum) | |
|---|---|---|
| Front pad (2): | ||
| Lower section | 10.00 oz. each | 6.50 oz. each. |
| Upper section | 7.25 oz. each | 4.75 oz. each. |
| Back pad | 11.50 oz. | 7.50 oz. |
| Total | 46.00 oz. | 30.00 oz. |
(2) Displacement of pad inserts. The volume of the finished individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide buoyancy as set forth in the following table when tested in accordance with the method set forth in § 160.005-5(d), except that the period of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement of the pads:
Table 160.005-4(
| Model 52 | Model 56 | |
|---|---|---|
| Front pads | 12 | 6 |
| Back pads | 8 lbs. each ± | 4 |
(d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall extend not less than 14 inches from the edge of the adult life preserver and not less than 12 inches from the edge of the child life preserver. They shall be stitched through both thicknesses of the envelope as shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 4, for child size, or by the alternate stitching shown on Sheet 2. The free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with section E-E of Sheet 1.
(e) Drawstrings. The drawstrings at the waist shall extend not less than 8 inches from the edge of the life preserver and shall be secured in the drawstring tunnel as shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 4, for child size, or by the alternate stitching shown on Sheet 2. The free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with section E-E of Sheet 1.
(f) Body strap. The body strap shall be fitted with a single dee ring on one end and with the arrangement of a snap hook and prethreaded double dee rings as shown on Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, on the other. The body strap shall be stitched as shown on the drawings, and the edge of the single dee ring shall be 20 inches from the center line for adult size and 15 inches for child size.
(g) Reinforcing tape. Binding tape shall be stitched approximately 15 inches for adult life preservers and 12 inches for child life preservers around the back of the neck, and also around the openings of the drawstring tunnel and around the bottom of the arm holes as indicated by the drawings.
(h) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not less than 7, nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
(i) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.005-5 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
(a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector in accordance with this section and § 160.001-5.
(b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life preserver shall be determined according to § 160.001-5(f) of this part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
(c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.
§ 160.005-6 Marking.
Each life preserver must have the following clearly marked in waterproof lettering on a front section:
(a) In letters three-fourths inch or more in height:
(1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
(b) In letters capable of being read at a distance of 2 feet:
§ 160.005-7 Procedure for approval.
General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, as explained in § 160.001-3 of this part.
Subpart 160.006—Life Preservers: Repairing
§ 160.006-2 Repairing.
(a) General. No repairs, except in emergency, shall be made to an approved life preserver without advance notice to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, of the district in which such repairs are to be made. Emergency repairs shall be reported as soon as practicable to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.
(b) Kind of repairs. Except in emergency, tapes or straps may not be repaired, but may be renewed, and small holes, tears, or rips in the envelope cover fabric may be repaired, at the discretion of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.
Subpart 160.010—Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.010-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change in the
(b) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.010-4 (“FED-STD-595C”).
(2) [Reserved]
(c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for § 160.010-3.
(2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for § 160.010-3.
(d) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(1) MIL-P-19644C, Military Specification, Plastic Molding Material (Polystyrene Foam, Expanded Bead), (July 10, 1970), IBR approved for § 160.010-5 (“MIL-P-19644C”).
(2) MIL-P-21929B, Military Specification, Plastic Material, Cellular Polyurethane, Foam-In-Place, Rigid (2 and 4 Pounds per Cubic Foot), (August 11, 1969), IBR approved for § 160.010-5 (“MIL-P-21929B”).
(3) MIL-P-40619A, Military Specification, Plastic Material, Cellular, Polystyrene (For Buoyancy Applications), (December 9, 1968), IBR approved for § 160.010-5 (“MIL-P-40619A”).
(4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for § 160.010-5 (“MIL-R-21607E(SH)”).
§ 160.010-2 Definitions.
Buoyant apparatus. Buoyant apparatus is flotation equipment (other than lifeboats, liferafts, and personal flotation devices) designed to support a specified number of persons in the water, and of such construction that it retains its shape and properties and requires no adjustment or preparation for use. The types of buoyant apparatus generally in use are the box-float type and the peripheral-body type defined in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section.
Box-float. Box-float is buoyant apparatus of a box-like shape.
Commandant means the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
Peripheral-body. Peripheral body is buoyant apparatus with a continuous body in the shape of either an ellipse or rectangle with a circular, elliptical, or rectangular body cross-section.
Inflatable buoyant apparatus. An inflatable buoyant apparatus is flotation equipment that depends on inflated compartments for buoyancy and is designed to support a specified number of persons completely out of the water.
§ 160.010-3 Inflatable buoyant apparatus.
(a) Design and performance. To obtain Coast Guard approval, an inflatable buoyant apparatus must comply with subpart 160.151, with the following exceptions:
(1) Canopy requirements (IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/4.1.1.5 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart)). It does not need a canopy.
(2) Capacity (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying capacity must be not less than four persons.
(3) Floor insulation (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.2.2). The floor may be uninsulated.
(4) Stability (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5.4). It does not need stability pockets.
(5) Righting (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5.2). A reversible one does not need arrangements for righting.
(6) One with a capacity of 13 or more persons must be reversible, with the floor arranged between the buoyancy chambers so that the apparatus can, floating either side up, accommodate the number of persons for which it is approved. One with a capacity of 12 or fewer persons must either be reversible in the same manner, or be designed so that it can be readily righted by one person.
(7) One with a capacity of 25 or more persons must be provided with self-bailing floor drains. If the floor of a reversible one includes one or more drains, each drain must be arranged to completely drain the floor of water when the device is fully loaded, and must prevent water from flowing back onto the floor.
(8) If the buoyancy tubes are not vivid reddish orange, vivid yellow, or a fluorescent color of a similar hue, panels of such hue must be secured to the buoyancy chambers so that a minimum of 1 m
(9) Boarding ramp (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.1). Boarding ramps are not required if the combined cross-section diameter of the buoyancy chambers is 500 millimeters (mm) (19.5 in.) or less. An apparatus with a combined cross-section diameter greater than 500 mm (19.5 in.) requires boarding ramps as follows:
(i) For an apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, at least one ramp must be provided;
(ii) For an apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons, at least two ramps must be provided; and
(iii) The boarding ramps required by this paragraph must allow persons to board with either side of a reversible apparatus floating up, or the full number of ramps required must be installed on each side.
(10) Boarding ladder (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.2). Boarding ladders must be provided on each inflatable buoyant apparatus as follows:
(i) One ladder must be provided on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, except that, for an apparatus with a capacity of 13 or more persons that is not equipped with a boarding ramp, two ladders must be provided.
(ii) Two ladders must be provided on each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons.
(iii) The ladders required by this paragraph must allow persons to board with either side of a reversible apparatus floating up, or the full number of ladders required must be installed on each side.
(11) One or more exterior canopy lamps meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 160.151-15(n) must be provided such that—
(i) On a non-reversible inflatable buoyant apparatus, one lamp is mounted so that it is on the uppermost surface of the floating apparatus; and
(ii) On a reversible apparatus, two lamps are mounted so that one lamp is on the uppermost surface of the apparatus, whichever side is floating up.
(12) Equipment. All equipment required by this paragraph must be either packed in a container accessible to the occupants, or otherwise secured to the apparatus. Duplicate equipment must be provided, for each side of a reversible inflatable buoyant apparatus, if the equipment is not accessible from both sides. In lieu of the equipment specified in § 160.151-7(b) and (IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/4.1.5), each apparatus must be provided with—
(i) Rescue quoit and heaving line. One rescue quoit and a heaving line as described in § 160.151-21(a) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons; or two on each apparatus for a capacity of 25 or more persons. The heaving line(s) must be mounted adjacent to a boarding ramp (or boarding ladder, if no ramps are installed), and ready for immediate use;
(ii) Knives. One knife, of a type designed to minimize the chance of damage to the inflatable buoyant apparatus and secured with a lanyard ready for use near the painter attachment. Any knife may be replaced with a jackknife meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16). In addition, an inflatable buoyant apparatus that is permitted to accommodate 13 persons or more must be provided with a second knife that is of the non-folding type;
(iii) Bailer. One bailer as described in § 160.151-21(c) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons; or two bailers on each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons, except that no bailers are necessary if both sides of the floor of a reversible apparatus are equipped with drains;
(iv) Sponge. One sponge as described in § 160.151-21(d) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, or two sponges on each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons;
(v) Paddles. Two paddles as described in § 160.151-21(f) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, or four paddles on each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons;
(vi) Flashlight. One flashlight with spare batteries as described in § 160.151-21(m);
(vii) Signaling mirror. One signaling mirror as described in § 160.151-21(o);
(viii) Repair outfit. One set of sealing clamps or plugs as described in § 160.151-21(y)(1);
(ix) Pump or bellows. One pump or bellows as described in § 160.151-21(z); and
(x) Sea anchor. One sea anchor as described in § 160.151-21(e), attached so as to be readily deployable when the apparatus inflates.
(13) Marking and labeling. Marking and labeling of inflatable buoyant apparatus must be in accordance with the requirements of § 160.151-33, as well as IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.6.3 and 4.2.7.1.6, except that the device must be identified as an “INFLATABLE BUOYANT APPARATUS”, and no “SOLAS” markings shall be placed on the container of the apparatus. The capacity marking specified in IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.7.1.6 must be applied to the top of each buoyancy tube.
(14) Drop test. The drop test required under paragraph 1/5.1 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart) and § 160.151-27(a) may be from a lesser height, if that height is the maximum height of stowage marked on the container.
(15) Loading and seating test. For the loading and seating test required under paragraph 1/5.7 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and § 160.151-27(a), the loaded freeboard of the apparatus must be not less than 200 mm (8 in.).
(16) Cold-inflation test. The cold-inflation test required under paragraph 1/5.17.3.3.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and § 160.151-27(a) must be conducted at a test temperature of −18 °C (0 °F).
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests for inflatable buoyant apparatus must be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements of § 160.151-31.
(c) Servicing. Inflatable buoyant apparatus must be serviced periodically at approved servicing facilities in accordance with the applicable requirements of §§ 160.151-35 through 160.151-57.
(d) Instruction placard. An instruction placard meeting the requirements of § 160.151-59(c), giving simple procedures and illustrations for inflating, launching, and boarding the inflatable buoyant apparatus, must be made available to the operator or master of each vessel on which the apparatus is to be carried.
(e) Requirements for “open reversible liferafts” Annex 11 to IMO Res. MSC.97(73). To be approved as meeting the requirements for open reversible liferafts in Annex 11 to IMO Res. MSC.97(73), an inflatable buoyant apparatus must meet all of the requirements in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section, with the following exceptions:
(1) The apparatus must be reversible regardless of size.
(2) The surface of the buoyancy tubes must be of a non-slip material. At least 25 percent of the surface of the buoyancy tubes must meet the color requirements of § 160.151-15(e).
(3) The length of the painter should be such that the apparatus inflates automatically upon reaching the water.
(4) An additional bowsing-in line must be fitted to an apparatus with a capacity of more than 30 persons.
(5) The apparatus must be fitted with boarding ramps regardless of size.
(6) An apparatus with a capacity of 30 or fewer persons must be fitted with at least one floor drain.
(7) In addition to the equipment specified in § 160.010-3(a)(12), the apparatus must be provided with—
(i) Sponge. One additional sponge as described in § 160.151-21(d) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons;
(ii) First-aid kit. A first-aid kit as described in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(10);
(iii) Whistle. A ball-type or multi-tone whistle of corrosion-resistant construction;
(iv) Hand flares. Two hand flares approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.121.
(8) Marking and labeling of the apparatus must be in accordance with § 160.151-33, except that the device must be identified as a “NON-SOLAS REVERSIBLE”, and the equipment pack must be identified as an “HSC Pack”.
(9) Stability. It must be fitted with stability pockets, in accordance with IMO LSA Code Chapter IV/4.2.5.4.
§ 160.010-4 General requirements for buoyant apparatus.
(a) Each buoyant apparatus must be capable of passing the tests in § 160.010-7.
(b) Materials not covered in this subpart must be of good quality and suitable for the purpose intended.
(c) Buoyant apparatus must be effective and stable, floating either side up.
(d) Each buoyant apparatus must be of such size and strength that it can be handled without the use of mechanical appliances, and its weight must not exceed 185 kg (400 lb.).
(e) The buoyant material must be as near as possible to the sides of the apparatus.
(f) Each buoyant apparatus must have a life line securely attached around the outside, festooned in bights no longer than 1 m (3 ft.), with a seine float in each bight, unless the line is of an inherently buoyant material and absorbs little or no water. The life line must be at least 10 mm (
(g) Pendants must be fitted approximately 450 mm (18 in.) apart around the outside of each buoyant apparatus. Each pendant must be at least 6 mm (
(h) Each peripheral body type buoyant apparatus without a net or platform on the inside must also have a life line and pendants around the inside.
(i) Synthetic line or webbing must not be used unless it is of a type represented by its manufacturer as ultraviolet light resistant, or it is pigmented in a dark color. A typical method of securing lifelines and pendants to straps of webbing is shown in Figure 160.010-3(i). If webbing is used to secure life lines and pendants, it must be at least 50 mm (2 in.) wide and must have a breaking strength of at least 3.4 kN (750 lb.) for apparatus of under 25 persons capacity, and 6.7 kN (1,500 lb.) for apparatus of 25 persons capacity and higher.
(j) Buoyant apparatus must have a fitting with an inside diameter of at least 50 mm (2 in.) for the attachment of a painter.
(k) Each edge and exposed corner must be well rounded. Buoyant apparatus with a rectangular cross-section must have corners rounded to a radius of at least 75 mm (3 in.).
(l) Buoyant apparatus must not have any evident defects in workmanship.
(m) Each metal part of a buoyant apparatus must be—
(1) 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air corrosion characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel; and
(2) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact with it.
(n) The color of the buoyant apparatus must be primarily vivid reddish orange as defined by sections 13 and 14 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart).
(o) When fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic is used in the construction of a buoyant apparatus, each cut edge of laminate must be protected from entry of moisture by resin putty or an equivalent method.
(p) Each buoyant apparatus must have Type II retroreflective material meeting subpart 164.018 of this chapter on each side and end. The material must be in strips at least 50 mm (2 in.) wide extending from top to bottom over the side or end and continuing over the top and bottom surfaces of the apparatus. For peripheral body apparatus, each strip must extend completely over the top and bottom surface of the body. For box type apparatus, the strip must extend at least 300 mm (12 in.) inboard from the edge over the top and bottom surface. Each strip must be positioned near the center of the side or end, but so that it is not obscured by any strap. A typical arrangement is shown in Figure 160.010-3(p).
§ 160.010-5 Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.
(a) Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy must have a plastic foam body with an external protective covering. The body may be reinforced as necessary to meet the tests in § 160.010-7.
(b) Plastic foam used in the construction of buoyant apparatus must be a unicellular type accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as meeting one of the following:
(1) Subpart 164.015 of this chapter.
(2) MIL-P-19644C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart).
(3) MIL-P-21929B (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart).
(4) MIL-P-40619A (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart).
(c) The external protective covering must be—
(1) Fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, constructed of a polyester resin listed on the current Qualified Products List for MIL-P-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.010-1 of this subpart), or accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as meeting MIL-P-21607;
(2) Elastomeric vinyl accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as meeting § 160.055-3(j) of this chapter; or
(3) Any other material accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as providing equivalent protection for the body of the apparatus.
§ 160.010-6 Capacity of buoyant apparatus.
(a) The number of persons for which a buoyant apparatus is approved must be the lowest number determined by the following methods:
(1) Final buoyancy of the buoyant apparatus in Newtons after the watertight integrity test as described in § 160.010-7 (e) and (f), divided by 145 (divided by 32 if buoyancy is measured in pounds). The divisor must be changed to 180 (40 if buoyancy is measured in pounds) if the apparatus is designed so that persons supported are only partially immersed or where facilities are provided for climbing on top of the apparatus.
(2) Number of 300 mm (1 ft.) increments in the outside perimeter of the buoyant apparatus. The inside edge of peripheral-body type buoyant apparatus is not considered in determining the capacity.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.010-7 Methods of sampling, inspections and tests.
(a) General. Production tests must be conducted under the procedures in subpart 159.007 of this chapter. An inspector from the independent laboratory must inspect the place of manufacture, observe the various operations involved in the construction process and determine that buoyant apparatus are made in accordance with this subpart and of materials and parts conforming strictly with the plans and specifications submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4).
(b) Sampling of production lots. A production lot must consist of not more than 300 buoyant apparatus of the same design and capacity manufactured by one factory. Samples for production tests must be selected at random from each lot. The required sample size for various lot sizes is given in Table 160.010-7(b).
Table 160.010-7(
| Lot size | Sample size |
|---|---|
| 1 to 30 | 1 |
| 31 to 60 | 2 |
| 61 to 90 | 3 |
| 91 to 300 | 4 |
(c) Testing of sample buoyant apparatus from production lots. Each sample buoyant apparatus selected for test from a production lot must be subjected to the tests described in paragraphs (d) through (g) of this section. The stability test in paragraph (h) must be performed whenever a question of stability arises.
(d) Strength tests. The buoyant apparatus tested for approval must be subjected to the drop test. Buoyant apparatus tested for production lot inspections must also be subjected to the drop test except that in the case of peripheral body type apparatus, the beam loading test may be substituted.
(1) Drop test. Drop the complete sample buoyant apparatus into still water from a height of 18 m (60 ft.) twice, once flat and once endwise. There must be no damage that would render the apparatus unserviceable.
(2) Beam loading test. The buoyant apparatus must be stood on edge on one of its longer sides. A wood block 600 mm (24 in.) long and wide enough to cover the body of the apparatus must be centered on the top edge of the apparatus. A loading beam must be set at right angles to the float at a height so that the beam is in a horizontal position with its center on the center of the wood block. The loading beam must be hinged at one end and a load applied at the other end at a uniform rate of 225 kg (500 lb.) per minute until the load at the end of the beam as shown on Table 160.010-7(d)(2) is reached. The beam is then held stationary for 10 minutes. The device used to apply the load must be a chain fall, hydraulic cylinder or other device that allows the device to unload as the strain on the buoyant apparatus relieves. At the end of the 10 minute period, the drop in the load on the device must not exceed the maximum permissible drop shown in Table 160.010-7(d)(2). If the buoyant apparatus is not one of the sizes listed in the table, the loads must be determined by linear interpolation.
Because of the lever ratio of the beam loading apparatus described here, the actual loads applied to the apparatus are twice the loads shown in the Table.
Table 160.010-7(
| Size of buoyant apparatus (persons) | Test load (kg (lb.)) | Maximum permissible drop (kg (lb.)) |
|---|---|---|
| 60 | 2,400 (5,280) | 120 (264) |
| 40 | 1,800 (3,960) | 90 (198) |
| 25 | 1,500 (3,300) | 75 (165) |
| 15 | 1,200 (2,640) | 60 (132) |
| 10 | 900 (1,980) | 45 (100) |
(e) Buoyancy test. Known weights are loaded on the sample buoyant apparatus until it is awash. The buoyancy is the downward force exerted by the weights loaded on the apparatus. A raised platform of known weight having two runners on edge spaced so as to bear on the apparatus may be used to support the weights out of water to avoid the necessity for making allowances for the displacement of submerged weights. This test is not a required production test if the manufacturer—
(1) Uses the same plastic buoyancy foam used in previous production lots,
(2) Determines that the density of each batch of foam used is within a range specified on the approved plans, and
(3) Closely controls the amount of foam used in each apparatus.
(f) Watertight integrity test. The buoyant apparatus is submerged for 24 hours at a depth of 3 m (10 ft.) or equivalent water pressure. The final buoyancy of the buoyant apparatus is determined in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section. The final buoyancy must be at least 145 N (32 lb.) per person capacity of the buoyant apparatus or 180 N (40 lb.) per person capacity if the apparatus is designed so that persons supported are only partially immersed or if facilities are provided for climbing on top of the apparatus. The loss of buoyancy must not exceed 5 percent of the initial buoyancy. This test is not a required production test if the manufacturer uses the plastic buoyancy foam controls permitted as an alternative to the buoyancy test in paragraph (e) of this section.
(g) Painter attachment strength test. The apparatus must be positioned with its painter attachment fitting at the lowest point of the apparatus, directly below the center of buoyancy. The apparatus must be suspended in this position from the highest side. A load equal to twice the buoyancy of the apparatus must be suspended from the painter attachment fitting for 10 minutes. The fitting must remain firmly attached to the buoyant apparatus and the apparatus must not sustain any visible damage.
(h) Stability test. With the sample buoyant apparatus floating in water, a weight of 22.5 kg of iron per meter of length (15 lb. per foot) must be suspended in the water from the life lines along one of the longer edges. The same test must be performed along one of the shorter edges. The minimum weight along any one edge must be 27 kg (60 lb.). The buoyant apparatus must neither capsize nor become partially awash under either of these tests.
(i) Weight test. One buoyant apparatus of the lot submitted for approval must be weighed. The weight of the complete buoyant apparatus must be within the limit required in § 160.010-3(d).
(j) Lot acceptance or rejection. Inability of a sample buoyant apparatus to pass any one or more of the tests required in this section causes rejection of the lot. Each buoyant apparatus in a rejected lot must be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the defects found before the lot is resubmitted for inspection and testing.
§ 160.010-8 Nameplate and marking.
(a) A substantial nameplate must be permanently attached to each buoyant apparatus. The nameplate must contain the name of the manufacturer, lot designation or serial number, approval number, dimensions, and number of persons capacity. Space must be provided for the date, and the identification of the independent laboratory.
(b) The nameplates of buoyant apparatus accepted must be marked with the identification of the independent laboratory and the date.
§ 160.010-9 Procedure for approval.
(a) A buoyant apparatus is approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) The test required for approval are those in § 160.010-7, and must be performed on the first production lot of buoyant apparatus produced by the manufacturer.
§ 160.010-10 Independent laboratory.
(a) The approval and production tests in this subpart must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subparts 160.011-160.015 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.016—Lamps, Safety, Flame, for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.016-1 Applicable specification.
(a) The following specification of the issue in effect on the date flame safety lamps are manufactured forms a part of this subpart:
(1) Military specification:
(b) A copy of the above specification shall be kept on file by the manufacturer together with the approved plan and certificate of approval issued by the Coast Guard.
§ 160.016-2 Requirements.
(a) Flame safety lamps for use on merchant vessels shall comply with the construction requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-1204.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.016-4 Marking.
(a) Flame safety lamps shall be permanently and legibly marked with the name and address of the manufacturer and the type or model designation for the lamp.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.016-5 Procedure for approval.
(a) General. Flame safety lamps are approved for use on merchant vessels only by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. Correspondence relating to the subject matter of this specification shall be addressed to the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which such devices are manufactured.
(b) Pre-approval sample and plan. In order to apply for approval of a flame safety lamp for use on merchant vessels, submit one complete sample, together with four copies of an arrangement plan (parts drawings are not required), together with a statement that the lamp meets the construction requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-1204, as amended, to the Commander of the Coast Guard District who will forward same to the Commandant for determination as to its suitability for use on merchant vessels.
Subpart 160.017—Chain Ladder
§ 160.017-1 Scope.
(a) This subpart contains standards and approval and production tests for chain ladders used on a merchant vessel to get on and off the vessel in an emergency.
(b) The requirements in this subpart apply to a chain ladder designed for use along a vertical portion of a vessel’s hull.
§ 160.017-7 Independent laboratory.
The approval and production tests in this subpart must be conducted by or under the supervision of an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
§ 160.017-9 Approval procedure.
(a) General. A chain ladder is approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in accordance with § 160.017-21.
(c) Approval of alternatives. A chain ladder that does not meet the materials, construction, or performance requirements of this subpart may be approved if the application and any approval tests prescribed by the Commandant in place of or in addition to the approval tests required by this subpart, show that the alternative materials, construction, or performance is at least as effective as that specified by the requirements of this subpart. The Commandant may also prescribe different production tests if the tests required by this subpart are not appropriate for the alternative ladder configuration.
§ 160.017-11 Materials.
(a) Suspension members. Each suspension member of a chain ladder must be a continuous length of non-kinking chain, such as single loop lock link coil chain, with a minimum breaking strength of at least 16 kN (3,560 lbs.).
(b) Metal parts. Each metal part of a ladder must be made of corrosion-resistant metal or of steel galvanized by the hot dip process after the part is formed. If the ends of galvanized fasteners are peened over to lock them in place, a corrosion resisting surface treatment must be applied to each peened surface.
(c) Wooden parts. Each wooden part of a ladder must be made of hardwood that is free of defects affecting its strength or durability.
(d) Wood preservative. After each wooden part is formed and finished, it must be treated with water-repellant wood preservative that is properly applied.
(e) Lashing rings. The inside diameter of each lashing ring must be at least 75 mm (3 in.). Each lashing ring must have a minimum breaking strength of at least 16 kN (3,560 lbs.).
§ 160.017-13 Construction.
(a) General. Each chain ladder must have two suspension members. Each step in the ladder must be supported at each end by a suspension member.
(b) Suspension member. The distance between the two suspension members must be at least 400 mm (16 in.), but not more than 480 mm (19 in.). The chain between each top lashing ring and the first step must be long enough so that the distance between the center of the lashing ring and the top of the first step is approximately 600 mm (24 in.).
(c) Lashing rings. A lashing ring must be securely attached to the top and bottom of each suspension member. The means of attachment must be at least as strong as the chain and the lashing ring.
(d) Thimble or wear plate. A thimble or wear plate must be attached to the chain where it can slide on its connections to the lashing rings.
(e) Steps. Each step of a ladder must have two rungs arranged to provide a suitable handhold and stepping surface. The distance between steps must be uniform. This distance must be between 300 mm (12 in.) and 380 mm (15 in.).
(f) Rungs. Step rungs must meet the following requirements:
(1) Each rung must be wooden, or a material of equivalent strength, durability, handhold, and step surface characteristics.
(2) In order to provide a suitable handhold and step surface, the width of each rung must be at least 40 mm (1
(3) The distance between the rungs in each step must be uniform. This distance must be between 40 mm (1
(4) Each rung must be attached to a spacer ear by a method that prevents the rung from rotating and that supports it in a horizontal position when the ladder is hung vertically.
(g) Spacer ears. Spacer ears must meet the following requirements:
(1) All spacer ears on a ladder must be the same size and shape.
(2) The top and bottom of each spacer ear must be attached to a suspension member.
(3) The top point of attachment must be at least 100 mm (4 in.) above the top surfaces of the rungs attached to the spacer ear.
(4) Each spacer ear made of sheet metal must have features such as formed ribs, rolled flange edges, and stress relief holes at the ends of cuts, to prevent the ear from bending or tearing.
(h) Fasteners. Each fastening device must have a means to prevent the device from loosening.
(i) Workmanship. A ladder must not have splinters, burrs, sharp edges, corners, projections, or other defects that could injure a person using the ladder.
§ 160.017-15 Performance.
(a) Each chain ladder must be capable of being rolled up for storage.
(b) Each ladder when rolled up must be able to unroll freely and hang vertically.
§ 160.017-17 Strength.
(a) Each chain ladder must be designed to pass the approval tests in § 160.17-21.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.017-21 Approval tests.
(a) General. Each approval test must be conducted on a ladder of the longest length for which approval has been requested. If a ladder fails one of the tests in this section, the cause of the failure must be identified and any needed changes made. After a test failure and any design change, the failed test, and any other previously completed tests affected by the design change, must be rerun.
(b) Visual examination. Before starting the tests described in this section, an assembled chain ladder is examined for evidence of noncompliance with the requirements in §§ 160.017.11, 160.017-13, and 160.017-15.
(c) The following approval tests must be conducted:
(1) Strength test #1. An assembled ladder is supported so that a static load, if placed on any of its steps, would exert a force both on the step and each suspension member. A static load of 315 kg (700 lb.) is then placed on one step for at least one minute. The load must be uniformly distributed over a contact surface that is approximately 100 mm (4 in.) wide. The center of the contact surface must be at the center of the step. This test is performed on six different steps. No step may break, crack, or incur any deformation that remains after the static load is removed. No attachment between any step and a suspension member may loosen or break during this test.
(2) Strength test #2. A ladder is suspended vertically to its full length from its top lashing rings. A static load of 900 kg (2000 lbs.) is then applied to the bottom lashing rings so that it is distributed equally between the suspension members. The suspension members, lashing rings, and spacer ears must not break, incur any elongation or deformation that remains after the test load is removed, or be damaged in any other way during this test.
(3) Strength test #3. A rolled-up ladder is attached by its top lashing rings to anchoring fixtures in a location away from any wall or structure that would prevent it from falling freely, and where it can hang to its full length vertically. The ladder when dropped must unroll freely. When unrolling the ladder, its steps and attachments must not become cracked, broken, or loosened. Other similar damage making the ladder unsafe to use must likewise not occur.
§ 160.017-25 Marking.
(a) Each chain ladder step manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be branded or otherwise permanently and legibly marked on the bottom with—
(1) The name of the manufacturer;
(2) The manufacturer’s brand or model designation;
(3) The lot number and date of manufacture; and
(4) The Coast Guard approval number.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.017-27 Production tests and examination.
(a) General. Each ladder manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be tested in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter. Steps that fail testing may not be marked with the Coast Guard approval number and each assembled ladder that fails testing may not be sold as Coast Guard approved.
(b) Test #1: Steps. Steps must be separated into lots of 100 steps or less. One step from each lot must be selected at random and tested as described in § 106.017-21(c)(1), except that the step may be supported at the points where it would be attached to suspension members in an assembled ladder. If the step fails the test, ten more steps must be selected at random from the lot and tested. If one or more of the ten steps fails the test, each step in the lot must be tested.
(c) Test #2: Ladders. Assembled ladders must be separated into lots of 20 ladders or less One ladder must be selected at random from the ladders in the lot. The ladder selected must be at least 3 m (10 ft.) long or, if each ladder in the lot is less than 3 m long, a ladder of the longest length in the lot must be selected. The ladder must be tested as prescribed in § 160.017-21(c)(2), except that only a 3 m section of the ladder need be subjected to the static load. If the ladder fails the test each other ladder in the lot must be tested.
(d) Independent laboratory. Each production test must be conducted or supervised by an independent laboratory. However, if a test is performed more than 4 different times per year, laboratory participation is required only 4 times per year. If the laboratory does not participate in all tests, the times of laboratory participation must be as selected by the laboratory. The times selected must provide for effective monitoring throughout the production schedule.
(e) Visual examination. The visual examination described in § 160.017-21(b) must be conducted as a part of each production test.
Subpart 160.021—Hand Red Flare Distress Signals
§ 160.021-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Universal Color Language” and “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the publication listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1, 1979. The publication is on file at the Federal Register Library.
§ 160.021-2 Type.
(a) Hand red flare distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of a wooden handle to which is attached a tubular casing having a sealing plug at the handle end, the casing being filled with a flare composition and having a button of ignition material at the top, with a removable cap having a friction striking material on its top which may be exposed for use by pulling a tear strip. The flare is ignited by scraping the friction striker on top of the cap against the igniter button on top of the flare. The general arrangement of the flare is shown by Figure No. 160.021-2(a). Alternate arrangements which conform to all the performance requirements of this specification (and other arrangements which conform with all performance requirements except candlepower and burning time, but provide not less than 3,000 candela-minutes with a minimum of
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.021-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. The color of the tube shall be red. Flare compositions containing sulphur shall not contain more than 2.6 percent of potassium chlorate or an equivalent amount of any other chlorate. Flare compositions containing chlorates in any quantity shall not contain any ammonium salts.
(b) Workmanship. Hand red flare distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability. Moistureproof coatings shall be applied uniformly and shall be free from pinholes or other visible defects which would impair their usefulness.
(c) Construction. The casing shall be fitted and secured to the handle with not less than a 25 mm (1 in.) overlap and shall be attached to the handle in such a manner that failure of the joint will not occur during tests, ignition, or operation. The plug shall be securely affixed in the casing to separate the flare composition from the wooden handle. The flare composition shall be thoroughly mixed and be uniformly compressed throughout to preclude variations of density which may adversely affect uniformity of its burning characteristics. The cap shall have a lap fit of not less than 25 mm (1 in.) over the end of the casing and flare composition to entirely and securely protect the exposed surface of the igniter button and end of flare composition and casing, and shall have an inner shoulder so constructed that it is mechanically impossible for the inner surface of the cap to come in contact with the igniter button. The cap shall be securely attached to the casing in such manner as to preclude its accidental detachment. The cap shall be provided on its top with a friction striking material which shall, by a pull of the tear strip, be entirely exposed for striking the friction igniter button. The igniter button shall be non-water soluble or be protected from moisture by a coating of some waterproof substance, and shall be raised or exposed in such manner as to provide positive ignition by the friction striker. The igniter button shall be firmly secured in or on the top of the flare composition; the arrangement shall be such that the ignition will be transmitted to the flare composition. The assembled flare, consisting of tear strip, cap, casing, and handle, shall be sealed and treated to protect the flare from deterioration by moisture. The protective waterproof coating shall be applied so none adheres to the friction striking surface. Special consideration will be given to alternate waterproofing of the signal by means of a water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic waterproof bag satisfactory to the Commandant.
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.021-4.
§ 160.021-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.021-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this Chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with: (i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources of raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this Chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.021-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 160.021-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignited in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.021-4(c)).
(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistance. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours. If the signal is protected by alternate waterproofing consisting of a water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic waterproof bag, the 24-hour water immersion conditioning will be conducted while the signal is in the sealed plastic waterproof bag and will be followed by an additional immersion of the bare signal (i.e., after removal from the bag) 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 10 minutes.
(ii) Waterproofing of igniter button. Remove the cap from the test specimen. Place head of specimen without cap about 25 mm (1 in .) under the surface of water for approximately 5 minutes. Remove specimen from the water and wipe dry.
(iii) Ignition and burning characteristics. Test specimens shall ignite and burn satisfactorily with uniform intensity when the directions on the signal are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. The plug separating the flare composition from the handle shall in no case allow flame or hot gases to pass through it or between it and the casing in such manner as might burn the hand while holding the signal by the handle.
(iv) Burning time. The burning time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements from the time a distinct sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. Test specimens shall burn in air not less than 2 minutes.
Table 160.021-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumulative sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2) | 400 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 100 | 500 | |
| Third | 24 | 200 | 600 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 300 | 700 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 500 | 800 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 700 | 900 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 950 | 951 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | 0 | 400 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 100 | 600 | |
| Third | 39 | 300 | 800 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 500 | 1,000 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 700 | 1,100 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 1,350 | 1,351 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | 0 | 500 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 300 | 800 | |
| Third | 60 | 600 | 1,000 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 1,100 | 1,500 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 1,400 | 1,700 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 1,850 | 1,851 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 100 | 700 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 400 | 1,000 | |
| Third | 96 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 1,200 | 1,700 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 1,700 | 2,000 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 2,100 | 2,300 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 2,550 | 2,551 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 200 | 900 |
| than | Second | 100 | 700 | 1,400 | |
| 3,201. | Third | 150 | 1,300 | 1,900 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 1,900 | 2,500 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 2,500 | 2,900 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 3,100 | 3,300 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 3,750 | 3,751 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.021-4(
| Kind of defects | Percentage of failure |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to ignite | 100 |
| b. Ignites or burns dangerously | 50 |
| c. Nonuniform burning intensity | 50 |
| d. Chimneys so as to materially obscure the flame | 25 |
| e. Fire flashes down between casing and handle so as to endanger burning the hand | 50 |
| f. Burning time less than 70 pct of specified time | 100 |
| g. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of specified time | 75 |
| h. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of specified time | 50 |
| i. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of specified time | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Underwater burning. Condition each sample in accordance with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn about 5 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a vertical position with head down. Obtain under water burning time by stop watch measurement from time of submersion until distinct, sustained flame emission ceases. The test specimen shall burn under water not less than 5 seconds when subjected to this test.
(2) Bending strength. Place the specimen on supports 15 cm (6 in.) apart. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the weight from the supported signal by looping the wire around the signal approximately equidistant from the two points of support. Let the weight hang approximately 5 minutes. The test specimen shall not deflect more than 7 mm (1/4 in.), nor shall the joint between the casing and the handle fail, when subjected to this test.
(3) Tensile strength. Place the specimen in a chuck firmly holding it about 13 mm (1/2 in.) below the cap. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the weight from the supported signal by looping the wire through a hole bored perpendicular to and through the axis of the handle. Let the weight hang approximately 5 minutes. The test specimen shall not show noticeable distortion, nor shall the joint between the casing and handle fail, when subjected to this test.
(4) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each specimen tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent photometric device, while the specimen is supported in a horizontal position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and recorded at approximately 20 second intervals during the burning of the specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 25 mm (1 in.) per minute. The luminous intensity of specimen shall be computed as the arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous intensity of a test specimen shall be not less than 500 candela. The burning time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements from the time distinct, sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. Test specimens shall burn in air not less than 2 minutes.
(5) Elevated temperature, humidity and storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(6) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signals shall not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(7) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red as defined by sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary.” Two identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm × 60 cm (12″ × 24″) are used. Except for a negligible amount of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 m (5 ft.). The second test plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at a color temperature close to 2,848 °K at a distance of about 30 cm (1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through combinations of Lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45°), it is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (see the discussion in section 10 of “The Universal Color Language”).
(8) Heptane ignition. (i) A metal pan must be used to hold a layer of water at least 12mm (
(ii) The test must be conducted in a draft-free location. The ambient temperature, the temperature of the water, and the temperature of the heptane must all be between 20 °C (68 °F) and 25 °C (77 °F) at the time of the test.
(iii) The signal under test must be held with the flame end pointing upward at an angle of approximately 45°, 1.2 m (4 ft.) directly above the center of the pan. The signal must be ignited as soon as the heptane is observed to spread out over the water in continuous layer. The signal must be allowed to burn completely, and must remain in position until it has cooled.
(iv) The heptane must not be ignited by the flare or by material from the flare.
§ 160.021-5 Labeling and marking.
(a) Labeling. Each hand red flare distress signal shall bear a label securely affixed thereto, showing in clear, indelible black lettering on a red background, the following wording and information:
Service Life Expiration Date (Month and year to be inserted by manufacturer) (Month and year manufactured) (Lot No.____). Manufactured by (Name and address of manufacturer). U.S. Coast Guard Approval No.____
(b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
(c) Other marking. (1) There shall be die-stamped, in the side of the wooden handle in figures not less than 3 mm (C
(2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing carton or box containing hand red flare distress signals, such cartons or boxes shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service life expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
(3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.021-6 Container.
(a) General. Containers for stowage of hand red flare distress signals in lifeboats and life rafts on merchant vessels are not required to have specific approval or to be of special design, but they shall meet the following test for watertightness when closed, and shall be capable of being opened and reclosed hand-tight to meet the same watertightness test. The materials shall be copper, brass, bronze, or equally corrosion-resistant to salt water and spray. The type container illustrated by Figure Number 160.021-6(a) is recommended for most purposes.
(b) Watertightness test for containers. Whenever a question arises as to the watertightness of a container, the following test may be made to determine whether it is satisfactory in this respect. Open the container, remove the contents, insert colored blotting paper as a lining, re-close container as tightly as possible by hand (no wrenches or special tools permitted), submerge container with top about 30 cm (1 ft.) below the surface of the water for two hours, remove container from water, wipe off excess moisture on outside, then open the container and examine the blotting paper and entire interior for evidence of moisture penetration. If any moisture or water is evidenced, the container is not satisfactory.
(c) Marking of container. Containers shall be embossed or bear a brass or equivalent corrosion-resistant nameplate, or otherwise be suitably and permanently marked, to plainly show in letters not less than 13 mm (
§ 160.021-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.022—Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (5 Minutes)
§ 160.022-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
(2) “Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,” National Bureau of Standards Report 4792, July 1956.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from the Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
(d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal Register Library.
§ 160.022-2 Type.
(a) Floating orange smoke distress signals, specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of an outer container, ballast, an air chamber, an inner container, the smoke producing composition, and an igniter mechanism. Alternate arrangements which conform to the performance requirements of this specification will be given special consideration.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.022-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. Metal for containers shall be not less than 0.5 mm (0.020 in.) in thickness. Other dimensions or materials may be considered upon special request when presented with supporting data. Igniter systems shall be corrosion-resistant metal. The combustible material shall be of such nature that it will not deteriorate during long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, or both.
(b) Workmanship. Floating orange smoke distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.
(c) Construction. The outer container shall be of a size suitable for its intended use. All sheet metal seams should be hook-jointed and soldered. The whole container shall be covered with two coats of waterproof paint or equivalent protection system. The igniter mechanism shall be simple to operate and provide ignition in most unfavorable weather. The mechanism shall be protected with a watertight cover having a finish which is corrosion-resistant to salt water and spray. The cover shall be easily and quickly removable by hand without the use of tools. If attachment of the cover is by formed screw threads, it shall be of such construction or material to prevent rusting or corrosion and will not back off and loosen under shipboard vibration.
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.022-4.
§ 160.022-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.022-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with:
(i) Any change in construction details,
(ii) Any change in sources of raw materials, or
(iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot of signals must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.022-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 160.022-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignited in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.022-4(c).)
(2) Test Procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water-resistance. Immerse specimens horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
(ii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to the directions printed on the signal and place signal in tub or barrel of water. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained smoke emission until it ceases. The watch shall be stopped during periods of flame emission. The smoke emitting time for a specimen shall be not less than 4 minutes.
(iii) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. Test specimens shall emit smoke at a uniform rate while floating in calm to rough water. Signals should be so constructed that water submerging the signal in moderately heavy seas will not cause it to become inoperative.
Table 160.022-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumulative sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2) | 400 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 100 | 500 | |
| Third | 24 | 200 | 600 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 300 | 700 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 500 | 800 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 700 | 900 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 950 | 951 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | 0 | 400 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 100 | 600 | |
| Third | 39 | 300 | 800 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 500 | 1,000 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 700 | 1,100 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 1,350 | 1,351 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | 0 | 500 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 300 | 800 | |
| Third | 60 | 600 | 1,000 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 1,100 | 1,500 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 1,400 | 1,700 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 1,850 | 1,851 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 100 | 700 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 400 | 1,000 | |
| Third | 96 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 1,200 | 1,700 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 1,700 | 2,000 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 2,100 | 2,300 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 2,550 | 2,551 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 200 | 900 |
| than | Second | 100 | 700 | 1,400 | |
| 3,201. | Third | 150 | 1,300 | 1,900 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 1,900 | 2,500 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 2,500 | 2,900 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 3,100 | 3,300 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 3,750 | 3,751 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.022-4(
| Kind of defects | Percentage of failure |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to ignite | 100 |
| b. Ignites or burns dangerously | 50 |
| c. Nonuniform smoke emitting rate | 50 |
| d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 pct of specified time | 100 |
| e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 pct but less than 30 pct of specified time | 75 |
| f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of specified time | 50 |
| g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of specified time | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the following tests. Two of the three signals must pass the test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Smoke emission in waves. The signal shall be ignited and thrown overboard under conditions where the waves are at least 30 cm (1 ft.) high. The smoke emitting time must be at least 4 minutes and the signal shall float in such a manner that the signal shall function properly during this test. Failure to pass this test shall be cause for the lot to be rejected.
(2) Underwater smoke emission. Condition each sample in accordance with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until distinct, sustained smoke emission ceases. The test specimen shall emit smoke underwater not less than 15 seconds when subjected to this test.
(3) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for ten days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off). The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(4) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(5) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not explode or ignite.
(6) Corrosion resistance. Expose the complete specimen with cover secured hand-tight to a finely divided spray of 20 percent by weight sodium chloride solution at a temperature between 32 °C and 38 °C (90 °F and 100 °F) for 100 hours. The container and cap must not be corroded in any fashion that would impair their proper functioning.
(7) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the smoke must be orange as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
(8) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less than 20 percent transmission for not less than 3 minutes when measured with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7
§ 160.022-5 Marking.
(a) Directions for use. Each floating orange smoke distress signal shall be plainly and indelibly marked in black lettering not less than 3 mm (
(b) Other markings. (1) There shall be embossed or die-stamped, in the outer container in figures not less than 5 mm (
(2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing carton or box containing floating orange smoke distress signals, such cartons or boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the service life expiration date, the month and year of manufacture, and the lot number.
(3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
(c) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.022-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.023—Hand Combination Flare and Smoke Distress Signals
§ 160.023-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) Military specifications MIL-S-18655 C, 3 May 1971—Signal, Smoke and Illumination, Marine, Mark 13, Mod 0.
(b) The military specification may be obtained from Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. This specification is also on file in the Federal Register library.
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1, 1979.
§ 160.023-2 Type.
(a) Hand combination flare and smoke distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of the type described in specification MIL-S-18655.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.023-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) The materials, construction, workmanship, general and detail requirements shall conform to the requirements of specification MIL-S-18655, except as otherwise specifically provided by this subpart.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.023-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The approval tests are those tests prescribed for the preproduction sample in MIL-S-18655. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The manufacturer must select samples from each lot and test them as specified in the production lot procedures in MIL-S-18655.
(2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(1) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
§ 160.023-5 Labeling and marking.
(a) Labeling. A label showing firing instructions in accordance with specification MIL-S-18655, and to include the commercial designation of the signal, the lot number, Coast Guard approval number, the service life expiration date (month and year to be inserted by the manufacturer), and month and year of manufacture, shall be applied in a neat, workmanlike manner after the paint has become thoroughly dry. The label shall be attached to the signal and then protected by a transparent moisture impervious coating.
(b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
(c) Other marking. (1) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing carton or box containing signals, such cartons or boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the service life expiration date, the date of manufacture, and the lot number.
(2) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.023-6 Container.
(a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in Subpart 160.021 (§ 160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must be: “HAND COMBINATION FLARE AND SMOKE DISTRESS SIGNALS.”
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.023-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.024—Pistol-Projected Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals
§ 160.024-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Universal Color Language” and “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, Dictionary 1976.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the publication listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1, 1979. The publication is on file at the Federal Register Library.
§ 160.024-2 Type.
(a) Pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of a cartridge having centered primer, propelling charge, and projectile consisting of a case, delay element, expelling charge, and pyrotechnic candle attached to a parachute by shroud lines; the cartridge to be of such dimensions that it can be fitted into and fired from a signal pistol with chamber and bore dimensions within the limits provided by Figure 160.028-2(a) of subpart 160.028 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.024-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials used in pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. In general, all metallic parts shall be corrosion-resistant or properly protected against corrosion.
(b) Workmanship. Pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.
(c) Construction. The exterior case of the cartridge shall be made of suitable metal and shall protect against the entrance of moisture. The projectile case and delay element shall be so constructed as to prevent any possibility of the propelling charge blowing by and causing premature ejection of the projectile contents. The shoulder of the base of the cartridge shall be between 2.29 mm (0.090 in.) and 2.67 mm (0.015 in.) in thickness. The centered primer shall be set below the surface of the base between 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) and 0.50 mm (0.020 in.).
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all of the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.024-4.
§ 160.024-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.024-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with: (i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources of raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.024-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects. (Table 160.024-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with the table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.024-4(c).)
(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistance. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
(ii) Firing and operating characteristics. Signals shall fire and operate satisfactorily when shot from a pistol of the type described in subpart 160.028. The parachute and pyrotechnic candle shall be ejected at approximately the maximum altitude reached by the projectile case. The parachute shall open and properly suspend the pyrotechnic candle without fouling. The pyrotechnic candle shall burn with uniform intensity and without damaging the parachute, shrouds, or leader line.
(iii) Altitude. The altitude reached by a signal is considered to be the height at which the parachute and pyrotechnic candle are ejected from the projectile case, as determined by visual observation against an object of known height, such as a tower or balloon, or by triangulation from two or more points of observation, or by other method satisfactory to the Commandant. The altitude reached shall be not less than 45 m (150 ft.).
(iv) Rate of descent. The rate of descent of a signal is considered to be the calculated average rate obtained by dividing the altitude by the time of descent to the surface. The rate of descent shall not exceed 1.8 m (6 ft.) per second.
(v) Burning time. The burning time of the pyrotechnic candle shall be obtained by stop watch measurement from the time distinct, sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. The burning time shall be not less than 30 seconds.
Table 160.024-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumulative sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2) | 400 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 100 | 500 | |
| Third | 24 | 200 | 600 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 300 | 700 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 500 | 800 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 700 | 900 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 950 | 951 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | 0 | 400 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 100 | 600 | |
| Third | 39 | 300 | 800 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 500 | 1,000 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 700 | 1,100 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 1,350 | 1,351 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | 0 | 500 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 300 | 800 | |
| Third | 60 | 600 | 1,000 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 1,100 | 1,500 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 1,400 | 1,700 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 1,850 | 1,851 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 100 | 700 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 400 | 1,000 | |
| Third | 96 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 1,200 | 1,700 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 1,700 | 2,000 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 2,100 | 2,300 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 2,550 | 2,551 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 200 | 900 |
| than | Second | 100 | 700 | 1,400 | |
| 3,201. | Third | 150 | 1,300 | 1,900 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 1,900 | 2,500 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 2,500 | 2,900 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 3,100 | 3,300 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 3,750 | 3,751 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.024-4(
| Kind of defect | Percentage of failure |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to fire (when attributable to the primer and not to the malfunction of the pistol) | 100 |
| b. Failure to eject projectile contents | 100 |
| c. Failure to ignite pyrotechnic candle | 75 |
| d. Failure of parachute to open completely | 75 |
| e. Complete carrying away or destruction of parachute | 75 |
| f. Altitude less than 70 pct of that required | 100 |
| g. Altitude at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that required | 75 |
| h. Altitude at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that required | 50 |
| i. Altitude at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that required | 25 |
| j. Average rate of descent greater than 4 times maximum permitted | 100 |
| k. Average rate of descent less than 4 but greater than 3 times maximum permitted | 75 |
| l. Average rate of descent less than 3 but greater than 2 times maximum permitted | 50 |
| m. Average rate of descent less than twice but greater than maximum permitted | 25 |
| n. Burning time less than 70 pct of that required | 100 |
| o. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that required | 75 |
| p. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that required | 50 |
| q. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that required | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each pyrotechnic candle tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent photometric device while the specimen is supported in a horizontal position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and recorded at approximately 5-second intervals during the burning of the specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 10 cm (4 in.) per minute. The luminous intensity of the specimen shall be computed as the arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous intensity of a specimen shall be not less than 20,000 candela.
(2) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall fire and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(3) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(4) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary.” Two identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm × 60 cm (12″ × 24″) are used. Except for a negligible amount of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 cm (5 ft.). The second test plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at a color temperature close to 2,848° K at a distance of about 30 cm (1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through combinations of lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45°), it is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (see the discussion in section 10 of “the Universal Color Language”).
§ 160.024-5 Marking.
(a) Cartridge. Each pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signal shall be legibly marked as follows:
(b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
(c) Other marking. (1) On each pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signal there shall be die-stamped, in figures not less than 3mm (
(2) The pyrotechnic candle shall be legibly marked with the month and year of manufacture.
(3) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing carton or box containing cartridges, each carton or box shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service life expiration date, the date of manufacture, and the lot number.
(4) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.024-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.026 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.027—Life Floats for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.027-2 Type.
(a) Each life float must meet the requirements in subpart 160.010 of this chapter for a peripheral body type buoyant apparatus designed so that persons supported are only partially immersed (180 N (40 lb.) of buoyancy per person required).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.027-3 Additional requirements for life floats.
(a) Each life float must have a platform designed to drop through the center of the float, whichever way the life float is floating. A typical arrangement is shown in Figure 160.027-3(a).
(b) The platform must meet the requirements of one of the following paragraphs:
(1) A lattice type platform must be of western red cedar, port orford cedar, sitka spruce, northern white pine, or southern cypress slats constructed on an oak frame. The slats must have nominal cross-section dimensions not less than 90 mm (3
(i) Frame members,
(ii) Slats, and
(iii) Frame members and slats.
(2) A plywood platform must be made of exterior or marine type plywood with surfaces that are either “A” or “B” grade as commonly designated in the plywood industry. Holes 35 mm (1
(i) 12.5 mm (
(ii) 16 mm (
(iii) 19 mm (
(3) A platform of construction differing from that described in either (1) or (2) of this paragraph will be approved if it has holes to permit the passage of water and if it passes the tests in § 160.027-7. The number of holes must be the same as required for a plywood platform. If the platform is netting on a frame, the netting must be constructed of cordage with a breaking strength of at least 1600 N (355 lb.). The netting must be constructed on not more than 5 cm (2 in.) centers and must be knotted together at each point where the lines intersect.
(c) Each platform must be of a material that is resistant to deterioration by exposure to weather or must have a surface that protects it from deterioration by exposure to weather. For a wood platform, this surface must be at least two coats of water resistant spar varnish, or two coats of marine paint.
(d) Each part of the platform, including surfaces, edges, and rivets must be smooth and must not have cutting edges, points, or splinters which would be dangerous for bare feet.
(e) The platform must be arranged so that under normal stowed conditions, it can be retained in the center of the float and can be readily released from this position for use.
(f) The platform must be suspended from the body of the float by a net or an equivalent arrangement, which when fully extended, holds the top of the platform approximately 900 mm (36 in.) below the center of the float body.
(1) The net must be constructed of cordage with a minimum breaking strength of 1600 N (355 lb.). The net must be attached to the platform through holes on centers that do not exceed 165 mm (6
(2) If the platform is suspended from the body of the float by an arrangement other than a net as described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the arrangement must be of equivalent to the net in terms of strength, resistance to tangling, and allowing the platform to freely pass through the center of the life float body.
§ 160.027-7 Pre-approval tests for alternate platform designs.
(a) The tests in this section are for life float platforms that do not meet the requirements of either § 160.027-3(b) (1) or (2).
(b) The float body must be supported so that the platform is suspended in the air by the net or equivalent supporting arrangement. The platform must be loaded evenly with a weight equal to 60 percent of the weight of the total number of persons for which the float is to be rated, assuming a weight of 75 kg (165 lb.) per person. The weight must be allowed to remain on the platform for ten minutes after which it is removed. The supporting arrangement and platform must not show any evidence of damage or permanent deformation as a result of this test.
(c) The float body must be supported so that the platform is suspended in the air by the net or equivalent supporting arrangement. A bag of sand, shot or similar granular material weighing 90 kg (200 lb.) must be dropped onto the center of the platform from a height of 3 m (10 ft.). The supporting arrangement and platform must not show any damage that would affect the serviceability of the float or platform.
(d) As part of the buoyancy test required in § 160.010-7(e) of this chapter, the platform must be loaded with weights equal to
Since the weights on the platform will be submerged during this test, allowance must be made for the displacement of the submerged weights. The weight required is calculated by the formula W = (18d)/(d-4895), where W is the required submerged weight per person (in kg) and d is the density of the material (in kg/m
Subpart 160.028—Signal Pistols for Red Flare Distress Signals
§ 160.028-2 Type.
(a) Each signal pistol for launching a parachute distress signal that meets subpart 160.024 of this part must be of the center-firing type having chamber and bore dimensions within the limits indicated by Figure No. 160.028-2(a).
(b) A signal pistol for launching an aerial flare not under paragraph (a) of this section may have any chamber and bore dimensions if they are not the dimensions for a conventional round of ammunition.
§ 160.028-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials used in signal pistols shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. In general, all parts shall be corrosion-resistant or properly protected against corrosion. The ejection mechanism shall be of material possessing excellent wearing qualities.
(b) Workmanship. Signal pistols shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their serviceability or appearance.
(c) Construction and performance requirements. (Pistols intended for signals meeting Subpart 160.024). Signal pistols shall be of rugged construction and shall operate satisfactorily in firing and ejecting pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals of the type covered by Subpart 160.024. The ejection mechanism shall be of sturdy design capable of withstanding rough and repeated usage. The overall size and weight of signal pistols should be kept to a minimum consistent with adequate strength and safety. When the pistol is cocked and the trigger is pulled, the firing pin shall project between 1.52 mm and 2.54 mm (0.060 in. and 0.100 in.) beyond the face plate of the frame. When the barrel is locked in the firing position, the barrel chamber shall be not more than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) from the face plate of the frame.
§ 160.028-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval test. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must test three pistols in accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this section.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each pistol must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Each pistol which passes the production inspections and tests must be stamped with the letters “P.T.” Each pistol which fails the test must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.
(1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include the inspection of the pistols during production, and inspection of the finished pistols, to determine that the pistols are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Each pistol must be tested in accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this section, except that checking of the chamber and bore dimensions is not required.
(2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this Chapter must inspect and test three pistols at least one each year. The inspection must determine that the pistols are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The test must be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Operational test. The operational test must be conducted as follows:
(1) Check the chamber and bore dimensions of the pistol.
(2) Fire a dummy cartridge simulating a normal signal in size and weight, but with a charge double the normal charge.
(3) Fire a normal signal.
(4) Recheck the chamber and bore dimensions.
(5) The pistol must fire the signal properly, must not have any visible deformation or damage as a result of the test, and must not have any change in the chamber and bore dimensions.
§ 160.028-5 Marking.
(a) General. Each signal pistol shall be permanently and legibly marked with its serial number, Coast Guard approval number, and the name and address of the manufacturer.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.028-6 Container.
(a) General. Containers for the stowage of signal pistols and pistol projected parachute red flare distress signals in lifeboats and life rafts on merchant vessels are not required to have specific approval or to be of specific design except for certain material, marking, and test requirements, which requirements are contained in § 160.024-6 of subpart 160.024.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.028-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.031—Line-Throwing Appliance, Shoulder Gun Type (and Equipment)
§ 160.031-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following Federal specification is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) T-R-605 b, December 13, 1963 and Amendment 3, April 17, 1973—Rope, Manila, and Sisal.
(b) The Federal specification may be obtained from Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. This specification is also on file in the Federal Register library.
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the material listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on September 24, 1979.
§ 160.031-2 Type and size.
(a) The shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance shall be breech-loading for the cartridge and muzzle-loading for the projectile, of not more than 13 mm (0.50 in.) caliber, chambered for blank rifle cartridges, smooth bored, and properly stocked, with shot line canister attached in a position below the barrel.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.031-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance requirements.
(a) All materials used in the construction of shoulder gun type line-throwing appliances and equipment shall be of good quality, suitable for the purpose intended, and shall conform to the requirements of this specification. The choice of materials shall be such that resistance to corrosion by salt water or spray, shock, temperature change, and wear will be obtained. The use of dissimilar metals in combination shall be avoided wherever possible, but when such contacts are necessary, provision shall be made to prevent such deleterious effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing or buckling of moving parts, and loosening or tightening of joints due to difference in coefficients of thermal expansion.
(b) The design and construction shall be proper and substantial for effective and safe operation aboard ship.
(c) The workmanship shall be first class and free from any imperfections of manufacture affecting appearance or serviceability of the gun.
(d) The gun, when loaded and fired in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, shall be capable of propelling through relatively still air, the service projectile with service line attached, for a distance of not less than 75 m (250 ft.) with deviation from the target not to exceed 4.5 m (15 ft.) either side.
§ 160.031-4 Equipment for shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance.
(a) Ten service projectiles, each machined from steel or bronze, weighing about 225 g (8 oz.), and having a shank of sufficient length to project slightly beyond the muzzle, with an eye at the upper end for securing the service line.
(b) Four service lines, each not less than 180 m (600 ft.) in length, of 1.5 mm (
(c) One auxiliary line consisting of at least 150 m (500 ft.) of 7.5 mm (3 in.) circumference manila complying with federal specification T-R-605.
(d) Twenty-five cartridges of the caliber and loading specified in the instructions furnished by the manufacturer of the gun. The cartridges shall be blank with waterproof paper wad.
(e) One cleaning rod with brush.
(f) One can of oil suitable for cleaning the gun and preserving the finish of the metal parts.
(g) Twelve wiping patches of a size suitable for cleaning the bore.
(h) One set of instructions including a list of the equipment furnished with the gun, the proper caliber and loading of the cartridges to be used in firing the gun, information as to the proper maintenance of the gun and equipment, and directions for loading and firing in service use shall be permanently engraved in plastic and mounted conspicuously in the case or box required by § 160.031-4(i).
(i) A suitable case or box, properly compartmented for stowage of the appliance and auxiliary equipment, is required for stowage on merchant vessels. The auxiliary line need not be stowed in the case.
§ 160.031-5 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval test. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must test an appliance in accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this section.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each appliance must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Each appliance which fails the inspections and tests must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.
(1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include the inspection of appliances during production as well as inspection of finished appliances to determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Each appliance must be tested in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section except that the projectile may be fired without a service line attached, and the distance and deviation do not have to be measured.
(2) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must inspect and test one appliance at least once each year. The inspection must determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The test must be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Operational test. The operational test must be conducted as follows:
(1) Three rounds must be fired by the gun, at least one of which must be with a service line attached to a projectile.
(2) The projectile must be fired first by aiming it down an open course, and measuring the distance and deviation of the projectile.
(3) After the projectile is fired, the other two rounds must be fired.
(4) The distance and deviation of the projectile must be in accordance with § 160.031-3(d) the gun must fire each round properly and the gun must not be fractured or damaged by the test.
§ 160.031-6 Marking.
(a) Gun. The gun shall be permanently and legibly marked on the barrel with the manufacturer’s model or type designation of the gun, the serial number for the gun, the official Coast Guard approval number, and the name of the manufacturer. The gun stock shall have recessed in it a brass or other corrosion-resistant plate showing legible maintenance instructions for the care of the gun and its parts to prevent corrosion. After the proof test, the gun barrel shall be marked with the letters “P.T.” and the name or mark of the company.
(b) Projectile. Projectiles shall be permanently and legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer.
(c) Line and container. The end of a service line intended to be attached to the projectile shall have securely attached thereto a substantial tag bearing a permanent legend indicating its purpose, and the other end of the line shall be tagged in the same manner to prevent delay in securing proper and immediate action with the equipment. The container of new service lines shall bear the name of the manufacturer, date of manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in all respects the line meets the requirements of this subpart for service lines. Line canisters and reels shall bear the name of the manufacturer.
§ 160.031-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Shoulder gun line throwing appliances are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.032-035 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.036—Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals
§ 160.036-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Universal Color Language” and “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the material listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1, 1979. The material is on file in the Federal Register library.
§ 160.036-2 Type.
(a) Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of a completely self-contained device which can be fired from the hand to provide a rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signal.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.036-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials used in handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. In general, all exposed parts shall be corrosion-resistant or properly protected against corrosion.
(b) Workmanship. Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.
(c) Construction. The exterior case of the cartridge shall be made of a suitable metal and shall protect against the entrance of moisture. The construction shall be such that the parachute and pyrotechnic candle will be expelled at approximately the maximum altitude reached.
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all of the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.036-4.
§ 160.036-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.036-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with:
(i) Any change in construction details,
(ii) Any changes in sources of raw materials, or
(iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.036-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 160.036-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.036-4(c)).
(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistant. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
(ii) Firing and operating characteristics. Signals shall fire and operate satisfactorily when the manufacturer’s directions are followed. The parachute and pyrotechnic candle shall be ejected at approximately the maximum altitude reached by the projectile case. The parachute shall open and properly suspend the pyrotechnic candle without fouling. The pyrotechnic candle shall burn with uniform intensity and without damaging the parachute, shrouds, or leader line.
(iii) Altitude. The altitude reached by a signal is considered to be the height at which the parachute and pyrotechnic candle are ejected from the projectile case, as determined by visual observation against an object of known height, such as a tower or balloon, or by triangulation from two or more points of observation, or by other method satisfactory to the Commandant. The altitude reached shall be not less than 150 m (500 ft.).
(iv) Rate of descent. The rate of descent of a signal is considered to be the calculated average rate obtained by dividing the altitude by the time of descent to the surface. The rate of descent shall not exceed 4.5 m (15 ft.) per second.
(v) Burning time. The burning time of the pyrotechnic candle shall be obtained by stop watch measurement from the time a distinct, sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. The burning time shall be not less than 30 seconds.
Table 160.036-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumulative sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2 ) | 400 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 100 | 500 | |
| Third | 24 | 200 | 600 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 300 | 700 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 500 | 800 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 700 | 900 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 950 | 951 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | 0 | 400 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 100 | 600 | |
| Third | 39 | 300 | 800 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 500 | 1,000 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 700 | 1,100 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 1,350 | 1,351 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | 0 | 500 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 300 | 800 | |
| Third | 60 | 600 | 1,000 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 1,100 | 1,500 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 1,400 | 1,700 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 1,850 | 1,851 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 100 | 700 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 400 | 1,000 | |
| Third | 96 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 1,200 | 1,700 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 1,700 | 2,000 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 2,100 | 2,300 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 2,550 | 2,551 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 200 | 900 |
| than | Second | 100 | 700 | 1,400 | |
| 3,201. | Third | 150 | 1,300 | 1,900 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 1,900 | 2,500 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 2,500 | 2,900 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 3,100 | 3,300 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 3,750 | 3,751 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.036-4(
| Kind of defect | Percentage of failure |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to fire | 100 |
| b. Failure to eject projectile contents | 100 |
| c. Failure to ignite pyrotechnic candle | 100 |
| d. Failure of parachute to open completely | 75 |
| e. Complete carrying away or destruction of parachute | 75 |
| f. Altitude less than 70 pct of that required | 100 |
| g. Altitude less than 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that required | 75 |
| h. Altitude at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that required | 50 |
| i. Altitude at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that required | 25 |
| j. Average rate of descent greater than four times maximum permitted | 100 |
| k. Average rate of descent less than 4 but greater than 3 times maximum permitted | 75 |
| l. Average rate of descent less than 3 but greater than 2 times maximum permitted | 50 |
| m. Average rate of descent less than twice but greater than maximum permitted | 25 |
| n. Burning time less than 70 pct of that required | 100 |
| o. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that required | 75 |
| p. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that required | 50 |
| q. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that required | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each pyrotechnic candle tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent photometric device while the specimen is supported in a horizontal position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and recorded at approximately 5-second intervals during the burning of the specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 10 cm (4 in.) per minute. The luminous intensity of the specimen shall be computed as the arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous intensity of a specimen shall be not less than 20,000 candela.
(2) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for ten days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall fire and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(3) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(4) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary.” Two identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm × 60 cm (12″ × 24″) are used. Except for a negligible amount of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 m (5 ft.). The second test plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at a color temperature close to 2,848° K at a distance of about 30 cm (1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through combinations of Lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45°), it is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (see the discussion in Section 10 of “The Universal Color Language”).
§ 160.036-5 Marking.
(a) General. Each hand-held rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signal shall be legibly marked or labeled as follows:
(Company brand or style designation)
(b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
(c) Other marking. (1) On each hand-held rocket propelled parachute red flare distress signal there shall be die-stamped in figures not less than 3 mm (
(2) The pyrotechnic candle shall be legibly marked with the month and year of manufacture.
(3) In addition to any other marking place on the smallest packing carton or box containing signals, each carton or box shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service life expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
(4) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.036-6 Container.
(a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in Subpart 160.021 (§ 160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must be:
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.036-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.037—Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signals
§ 160.037-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
(2) “Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,” National Bureau of Standards Report 4792, July 1956.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
(d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal Register library.
§ 160.037-2 Type.
(a) Hand orange smoke distress signals specified by this subpart shall be one type which shall consist essentially of a wooden handle to which is attached a tubular casing having a sealing plug at the handle end, the casing being filled with a smoke producing composition and fuse with button of ignition material at the top, and a removable cap having a friction striking material on its top which may be exposed for use by pulling a tear strip. The signal is ignited by scraping the friction striker on top of the cap against the igniter button on top of the body of the signal. Alternate arrangements which conform to the performance requirements of this specification will be given special consideration.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.037-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. The color of the tube shall be orange. The combustible materials shall be of such nature as will not deteriorate during long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, or both.
(b) Workmanship. Hand orange smoke distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability. Moisture proof coatings shall be applied uniformly and shall be free from pinholes or other visible defects which would impair their usefulness.
(c) Construction. The casing shall be fitted and secured to the handle with not less than a 25 mm (1 in.) overlap and shall be attached to the handle in such a manner that failure of the joint will not occur during tests, ignition, or operation. The plug shall be securely affixed in the casing to separate the smoke composition from the wooden handle. The smoke composition shall be thoroughly mixed and be uniformly compressed throughout to preclude variations of density which may adversely affect uniformity of its smoke emitting characteristics. The cap shall have a lap fit of not less than 25 mm (1 in.) over the end of the casing and smoke composition to entirely and securely protect the exposed surface of the igniter button and end of smoke composition and casing, and shall have an inner shoulder so constructed that it is mechanically impossible for the inner surface of the cap to come in contact with the igniter button. The cap shall be securely attached to the casing in such manner as to preclude its accidental detachment. The cap shall be provided on its top with a friction striking material which shall, by a pull of the tear strip, be entirely exposed for striking the friction igniter button. The igniter button shall be non-water soluble or be protected from moisture by a coating of some waterproof substance, and shall be raised or exposed in such manner as to provide positive ignition by the friction striker. The igniter button shall be firmly secured in or on the top of the smoke composition; the arrangement shall be such that the ignition will be transmitted to the smoke producing composition. The assembled signal, consisting of tear strip, cap, casing, and handle, shall be sealed and treated to protect the signal from deterioration by moisture. The protective waterproof coating shall be applied so none adheres to the friction striking surface. Special consideration will be given to alternate waterproofing of the signal by means of a water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic waterproof bag satisfactory to the Commandant.
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.037-4.
§ 160.037-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.037-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with:
(i) Any change in construction details,
(ii) Any change in sources of raw materials, or
(iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this Chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.037-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defeats (Table 160.037-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If the sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired, or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.037-4(c)).
(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistance. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours. If the signal is protected by alternate waterproofing consisting of a water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic waterproof bag, the 24-hour water immersion conditioning will be conducted while the signal is in the sealed plastic waterproof bag and will be followed by an additional immersion of the bare signal (i.e., after removal from the bag) 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 10 minutes.
(ii) Waterproofing of igniter button. Remove the cap from the test specimen. Place head of specimen without cap about 25 mm (1 in.) under the surface of water for approximately 5 minutes. Remove specimen from the water and wipe dry.
(iii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to directions printed on the signal. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained smoke emission until it ceases. The watch shall be stopped during periods of flame emission. The smoke emitting time for a specimen shall be not less than 50 seconds.
(iv) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. The plug separating the smoke producing composition from the handle shall in no case allow flame or hot gases to pass through it or between it and the casing in such manner as might burn the hand while holding the signal by the handle.
Table 160.037-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumula- tive sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2 ) | 400 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 100 | 500 | |
| Third | 24 | 200 | 600 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 300 | 700 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 500 | 800 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 700 | 900 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 950 | 951 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | 0 | 400 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 100 | 600 | |
| Third | 39 | 300 | 800 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 500 | 1,000 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 700 | 1,100 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 1,350 | 1,351 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | 0 | 500 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 300 | 800 | |
| Third | 60 | 600 | 1,000 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 1,100 | 1,500 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 1,400 | 1,700 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 1,850 | 1,851 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 100 | 700 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 400 | 1,000 | |
| Third | 96 | 800 | 1,300 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 1,200 | 1,700 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 1,700 | 2,000 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 2,100 | 2,300 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 2,550 | 2,551 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 200 | 900 |
| than | Second | 100 | 700 | 1,400 | |
| 3,201. | Third | 150 | 1,300 | 1,900 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 1,900 | 2,500 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 2,500 | 2,900 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 3,100 | 3,300 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 3,750 | 3,751 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.037-4(
| Kind of defects | Percentage of failure |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to ignite | 100 |
| b. Ignites or burns dangerously | 50 |
| c. Non-uniform smoke-emitting rate | 50 |
| d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 pct of specified time. | 100 |
| e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of specified time. | 75 |
| f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of specified time. | 50 |
| g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of specified time. | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Underwater smoke emission. Condition each sample in accordance with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until smoke emission ceases. The test specimen shall burn underwater not less than 10 seconds when subjected to this test.
(2) Bending strength. Place the specimen on supports 15 cm (6 in.) apart. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the weight from the supported signal by looping the wire around the signal approximately equidistant from the two points of support. Let the weight hang approximately 5 minutes. The test specimen shall not deflect more than 7 mm (
(3) Tensile strength. Place the specimen in a chuck firmly holding it about 13 mm (
(4) Elevated temperature, humidity and storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(5) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(6) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not explode or ignite.
(7) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the smoke must be orange as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
(8) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less than 70 percent transmission for not less than 30 seconds when measured with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7
§ 160.037-5 Labeling and marking.
(a) Labeling. Each hand orange smoke distress signal shall bear a label securely affixed thereto, showing in clear, indelible black lettering on an orange background, the following wording and information:
Service Life Expiration Date (Month and year to be inserted by manufacturer) (Month and year manufactured) (Lot No. ____). Manufactured by (Name and address of manufacturer). U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. ____.
(b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must not be more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
(c) Other marking. (1) There shall be die-stamped, in the side of the wooden handle in figures not less than 3 mm (
(2) In addition to any other marking place on the smallest packing carton or box containing hand orange smoke distress signals such cartons or boxes shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service life expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
(3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.037-6 Container.
(a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in subpart 160.021 (§ 160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must be: “Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signals.”
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.037-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.038—Magazine Chests, Portable, for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.038-1 Applicable specifications.
(a) There are no other specifications applicable to this subpart.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.038-2 Type.
(a) Portable magazine chests shall be of a type suitable for stowage of pyrotechnic distress signals, rockets, or powder for line-throwing guns, and shall be of a size not less than 6 nor more than 40 cubic feet capacity. Alternate types of construction to that specified below will be given special consideration.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.038-3 Materials, workmanship, and construction.
(a) Portable magazine chests shall be constructed of metal and lined with wood.
(b) The lining shall be so fitted and finished as to form a smooth surface within the interior of the chest. Fastenings shall be recessed below the surface to avoid projections within the interior. Construction shall be such as to separate all containers of explosives or pyrotechnics from contact with metal surfaces.
(c) The metal shall be
§ 160.038-4 Inspections and tests.
(a) Portable magazine chests specified by this subpart are not ordinarily subject to regularly s scheduled factory inspections.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.038-5 Marking.
(a) Portable magazine chests used for the stowage of pyrotechnic signals, rockets, and powder for line-throwing guns shall be marked, in letters at least 3 inches high, with the following legend: “Portable Magazine Chest, Inflammable—Keep Lights and Fire Away.”
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.038-6 Procedure for approval.
(a) Portable magazine chests are not subject to formal approval, but will be accepted by the inspector on the basis of this subpart at annual inspections and reinspections of vessels.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.039 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.040—Line-Throwing Appliance, Impulse-Projected Rocket Type (and Equipment)
§ 160.040-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following military specifications are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) MIL-R-23139 B, 16 August 1965—Rocket Motors, Surface Launched, Development and Qualification Requirements for.
(2) MIL-R-45505 A, 2 April 1971—Line Throwing Apparatuses, Rocket and Projectile Units.
(b) The military specifications may be obtained from Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. These specifications are also on file in the Federal Register library.
(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on September 24, 1979.
§ 160.040-2 Type and size.
(a) Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances required by this subpart shall be of a type consisting essentially of a pistol or launcher, which can be hand held and hand directed, or suitably supported and hand directed.
(b) Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances shall weigh (complete with one rocket, bridle, and leader) not to exceed 16 kg (35 lb.) and shall be of a size easily manageable by one person.
(c) Alternate arrangements which meet the performance requirements of this subpart will be given special consideration. Line-throwing appliances meeting the requirements of MIL-L-45505 Type I will be considered as meeting the requirements of this subpart subject to approval of the Commandant.
§ 160.040-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. All materials used in the construction of impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances and equipment shall be of good quality suitable for the purpose intended, and shall conform to this subpart and to the specifications submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. The choice of materials, when there is no specific requirement, shall be such that maximum safety to operating personnel will be maintained, and that resistance to corrosion by salt water or spray, shock, temperature change, and wear will be obtained. The use of dissimilar materials in combination shall be avoided wherever possible, but when such contacts are necessary, provision shall be made to prevent such deleterious effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing or buckling of moving parts, and loosening or tightening of joints due to differences in coefficients of thermal expansion.
(b) Construction. The design and construction shall be such as to obtain effective and safe operation aboard vessels at sea.
(c) Workmanship. Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.
(d) Performance. When the rocket is fired from the appliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, it shall be capable of passing the tests specified by § 160.040-5(c).
§ 160.040-4 Equipment for impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliance.
(a) Four rocket projectiles, each complete with bridle and leader of fire-resistant materials. Two of the projectiles shall be of the buoyant type.
(b) Not less than 4 primer-ejector cartridges which fit the chamber of the pistol, gun, or launcher.
(c) Four service lines, each 4 mm (
(d) [Reserved]
(e) One cleaning rod with wire brush of non-ferrous metal, prongs arranged in a spiral of sufficient rigidity and size to clean the bore.
(f) One can of oil suitable for cleaning and preserving the appliance.
(g) Twelve flannel wiping patches of sufficient size to cover the brush and suitable for wiping the bore clean.
(h) One set of instructions including a list of the equipment furnished with the appliance, information as to the proper maintenance of the appliance and equipment, and directions for loading and firing the appliance in service use shall be permanently engraved in plastic and mounted conspicuously in the case or box required by paragraph (i) of this section.
(i) A suitable case or box, properly compartmented for stowage of the appliance and auxiliary equipment, is required for stowage on merchant vessels. The service line and auxiliary line need not be stowed in the case.
§ 160.040-5 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the performance tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Each appliance or lot of rockets which fails the inspections and tests must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.
(1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include the inspection of appliances during production as well as inspection of finished appliances, to determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The performance tests in paragraph (c) of this section must be performed by the manufacturer.
(2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must inspect and test appliances and rockets at least once each year. The inspection must determine that the appliances and rockets are being produced in accordance with the appropriate plans. The tests must be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Performance tests—(1) Appliances. Each appliance shall be tested by firing three rounds. These rounds may be regular rockets or buoyant type rockets carrying regular service lines, as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this paragraph or may be dummy projectiles, of the same size and weight as the regular rocket projectile, expelled into an earthen bank or other resisting medium from a reasonable distance. At least one of the rounds shall be fired using a primer-ejector cartridge loaded with a charge double the normal charge; the other rounds may be fired using regular primer-ejector cartridges. After the firing tests have been completed, each appliance shall be fired twice using the regular primer-ejector cartridges only, for the purposes of demonstrating that the appliance is still in operating condition. The entire assembly of the appliance shall then be examined. Results of the test firing and the physical examination shall show none of the following: Failure to eject cartridge, failure to close breech, trigger malfunction, safety lock failure to function, breech catch malfunction, broken spring, broken handgrips, cracked barrel or discharge chamber, firing pin or plunger broken, distorted or excessively worn or loose breech. A single misfire is acceptable if a second cartridge fires on repeated test. Misfire of both shall be cause for rejection of the appliance. More than one loose screw shall be cause for rejection. If an appliance exhibits a single loose screw, it may be retightened.
(2) Rockets. The rocket shall utilize a solid fuel propellant which shall function in accordance with all applicable requirements of MIL-R-23139. The use of black powder for the rocket motor is not acceptable. The ignition of the rocket motor shall occur at such a distance from the appliance so as not to spew flame, hot gaseous exhaust, or hot particles of propellant in such a manner as to create a hazard to personnel or the vessel. The rocket shall have a service line carrier assembly permanently attached and made of material, or suitably protected, to withstand the heat from the rocket motor’s exhaust. From each 200 rockets manufactured, not less than three must be selected to be tested by firing with service line attached. The rockets selected will, over a period of time, include representative samples of both the regular and buoyant type rockets, except that the approval test must include both types. The line shall be carried, under conditions of reasonably still atmosphere, a minimum of 230 m (750 ft.), without breaking or fouling the line, and the rocket shall alight not more than 15 m (50 ft.) from either side of the target line. In no case shall a test rocket be fired without a line attached. After a buoyant type rocket is fired, it shall demonstrate its ability to float in water for not less than 2 hours. Failure to meet any of the test requirements, nose cone cracks, rupture in flight, erratic flight, or unusual burning rate, shall be cause for rejection of rockets produced until suitable correction has been made. If rockets selected from this lot are used for the tests required in paragraph (c)(1) of this section this may be accepted as meeting the requirements of this paragraph.
(3) Primer-ejector cartridges. Inasmuch as primer-ejector cartridges are used for the tests required by paragraphs (c) (1) and (2) of this paragraph, additional tests of primer-ejector cartridges will be made only when deemed advisable by the independent laboratory. Misfiring or failure of any kind shall be cause for rejection of cartridges produced until suitable correction has been made.
§ 160.040-6 Marking and labeling.
(a) The appliance shall be permanently and legibly marked by die-stamping or raised letters with the model designation of the appliance, the manufacturer’s serial number for the appliance, the official Coast Guard approval number, and the name of the manufacturer. The rocket-projectiles shall be legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer, the model designation, the official Coast Guard approval number, and month and year manufactured. Primer-ejector cartridges shall be permanently and legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer, and the model designation, the official Coast Guard approval number, and the month and year manufactured.
(b) The containers of new service lines shall bear the name of the manufacturer, date of manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in all respects the line meets the requirements of this subpart for service lines. Line faking boxes and reels shall bear the name of the manufacturer.
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.040-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Rocket type line-throwing appliances are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.041 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.042—Skids, Liferaft, for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.042-1 Applicable specification.
(a) The following specification, of the issue in effect on the date life raft skids are manufactured, forms a part of this subpart:
(1) Coast Guard specification:
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.042-2 General requirements.
(a) The requirements of this subpart provide for a standard life raft skid for use on ocean and coastwise vessels in conjunction with the stowage of Type A rafts which may be used on such vessels.
(b) Life raft skids shall be constructed and arranged so as to properly support a Type A life raft in the stowed position and permit the launching of the life raft directly into the water without the application of any force other than that necessary to release the gripping arrangement and operate the release mechanism.
(c) Arrangements other than those specified by this subpart will be given special consideration.
§ 160.042-3 Construction.
(a) The trackways of the skids shall be constructed of 6″ × 3
(b) The lower end of the life raft shall be supported by a base plate so arranged as to permit launching of the raft by a quick release assembly.
(c) All bearing surfaces of the quick release mechanism shall be constructed of non-corrosive metal. Alemite fittings shall be provided to insure positive lubrication of all bearing surfaces.
§ 160.042-4 Inspection.
(a) Life raft skids covered by this subpart are not subject to inspection at the place of manufacture, but are inspected on the basis of this specification during the annual or other inspection of the vessel upon which they are placed.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.042-5 Procedure for approval.
(a) Life raft skids are not subject to formal approval by the Commandant, but for each merchant vessel on which Type A life rafts are to be installed, plans showing the construction and arrangement of the life raft stowage and launching device on the vessel are required to be submitted for approval to the Commandant through the Commander of the Coast Guard District prior to the actual installation. Life raft skids should comply with the requirements of this specification in order to be acceptable for use in such installations.
(b) Correspondence pertaining to the subject matter of this specification should be addressed to the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the skids are to be installed.
Subparts 160.043-160.044 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.046—Emergency Provisions
§ 160.046-1 Scope.
This subpart applies to emergency provisions approved to be carried in lifeboats and liferafts, in accordance with 46 CFR 199.175(b)(22).
§ 160.046-3 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at the Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; email: [email protected]; website: www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email [email protected]; website: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. All approved material is available from the source(s) listed in this section.
(b) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland; phone: +41 22 749 01 11; email: [email protected]; web: www.iso.org.
(1) ISO 18813:2006(E), Ships and marine technology—Survival equipment for survival craft and rescue boats, First edition, April 1, 2006; IBR approved for §§ 160.046-5; 160.046-7; 160.046-11.
(2) [Reserved]
§ 160.046-5 General requirements for emergency provisions.
Emergency provisions must meet the requirements found in ISO 18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.046-3).
§ 160.046-7 Independent laboratory.
Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010, must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by ISO 18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.046-3). Approval and production tests of emergency provisions must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspections in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007, and in this section unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
§ 160.046-9 Manufacturer certification and labeling.
(a) Each provision must be certified by the manufacturer as complying with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) The container should be clearly and permanently marked with:
(1) The name and address of the approval holder;
(2) The U.S. Coast Guard Approval number;
(3) The total food energy value of provisions in the container in calories and kiloJoules;
(4) The lot number;
(5) The month and year the provision was packed; and
(6) The month and year of expiration (5 years after the date of packing).
(c) The emergency provision must include waterproof instructions for use, assuming consumption of 3350 kiloJoules per person per day.
§ 160.046-11 Manufacturer notification.
(a) Each manufacturer of emergency provisions approved in accordance with the specifications of this subpart must send a test report required by ISO 18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31.2 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.046-3) to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509 or email [email protected]:
(1) With the application for approval;
(2) Every year as long as the manufacturer continues to produce provisions; and
(3) Each time the contents of the emergency provisions change.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.047—Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Kapok or Fibrous Glass, Adult and Child
§ 160.047-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Federal Specification:
(2) Military specifications:
(3) Federal Standards:
(4) Coast Guard specification:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date buoyant vests are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(c) Copies on file. The manufacturer shall keep a copy of each specification and plan required by this section on file together with the certificate of approval. Plans and specifications may be obtained as follows:
(1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509 or a recognized laboratory listed in § 160.047-6b.
(2) The Federal Specifications and Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407;
(3) The military specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.047-2 Model.
Each buoyant vest specified in this subpart is a:
(a) Model AK-1, adult, kapok (for persons weighing more than 90 pounds);
(b) Model AF-1, adult, fibrous glass (for persons weighing more than 90 pounds);
(c) Model CKM-1, child medium, kapok (for children weighing from 50 to 90 pounds);
(d) Model CFM-1, child medium, fibrous glass (for children weighing from 50 to 90 pounds);
(e) Model CKS-1, child small, kapok (for children weighing less than 50 pounds); or
(f) Model CFS-1, child small, fibrous glass (for children weighing less than 50 pounds).
§ 160.047-3 Materials.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished product.
(b) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with Subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
(c) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall comply with the requirements of specification MIL-B-2766.
(d) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made from 39″, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of approximately 96 × 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of not less than 94 × 60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
(e) Pad covering. The covering for the buoyant pad inserts shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006″ in thickness meeting the requirements of Federal Specification L-P-375 for Type I or II, class 1, film.
(f) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap loops for an adult or child size buoyant vest specified by this subpart must be
(f-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly, including hardware, must have a breaking strength of 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the webbing are as follows:
(1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch.
(2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-fourth inch and meet the requirements of military specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIa webbing.
(f-2) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape around the neck of a buoyant vest specified by this subpart must be
(g) [Reserved]
(h) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
§ 160.047-3a Materials—Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
(a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap lock assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
(1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion resistant materials includes, but is not limited to, brass, bronze, and stainless steel.
(2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with the webbing which will pass through the opening.
(b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must—
(1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which one or more of the following tests will be used:
(i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a temperature of 95 °F (35 °C) for a period of 240 hours in accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal Test Method Standard No. 151.
(ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weather-ometer for a period of 100 hours.
(iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the following:
(a) Leaded gasoline.
(b) Gum turpentine.
(iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0° ±5 °F (−17.6 ±2.775 °C) for 24 hours; and
(2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size for 10 minutes at the ambient temperatures without breaking or distorting.
§ 160.047-4 Construction.
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing compartments in which are enclosed pads of buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the proper flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an upright backward position with head and face out of water. The buoyant vests are also fitted with tapes, webbing, and hardware to provide for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit to the bodies of various size wearers.
(b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.047-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 for child sizes, and sewed with seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. Three compartments shall be formed to hold the buoyant pad inserts, two front compartments and one back compartment, and reinforcing strips of the same material as the cover shall be stitched to the inside of the front compartments in way of the strap attachments as shown by the drawings. As alternate construction, the front and/or back cover panels may be made in two pieces, provided that the two pieces are joined by a double stitched seam from the top center of the neck hole to the top of the vest as shown in Section J-J of the drawings.
(c) Pad inserts—(1) Forming and sealing. The buoyant pad inserts shall each be formed from two pieces of film cut to the patterns shown by Dwg. No. 160.047-1, Sheet 4, which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when 1 inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches per minute.
(2) Kapok-filled pads for Models AK-1, CKM-1, and CKS-1. The buoyant pad inserts for Models AK-1, CKM-1, and CKS-1 buoyant vests shall be filled with kapok distributed as provided in Table 160.047-4(c)(2).
Table 160.047-4(
| Model AK-1 (minimum) | Model CKM-1 (minimum) | Model CKS-1 (minimum) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front pad (2) (each) | 5.75 | 3.75 | 2.50 |
| Back pad | 4.00 | 2.50 | 2.00 |
| Total | 15.50 | 10.00 | 7.00 |
(3) Fibrous glass-filled pads for Models AF-1, CFM-1, and CFS-1. The buoyant pad inserts for Models AF-1, CFM-1, and CFS-1 buoyant vests shall be filled with fibrous glass distributed as provided in Table 160.047-4(c)(3).
Table 160.047-4(
| Model AF-1 (minimum) | Model CFM-1 (minimum) | Model CFS-1 (minimum) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front pad (2) (each) | 10.25 | 6.75 | 4.50 |
| Back | 7.25 | 4.50 | 3.50 |
| Total | 27.75 | 18.00 | 12.50 |
(4) Displacement of buoyant pad inserts. The volume of the finished individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide buoyancy as set forth in Table 160.047-4(c)(4) when tested in accordance with the method set forth in § 160.047-5(e)(1), except that the pad covers shall not be slit open and the period of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement of the pads.
Table 160.047-4(
| Models AK-1 and AF-1 | Models CKM-1 and CFM-1 | Models CKS-1 and CFS-1 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Each | Each | Each | |
| Front pads | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Back pads | 4 | 3 | 2 |
(d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall finish not less than 12 inches in length for both adult and child size buoyant vests. They shall be arranged and attached to the envelope as shown by the drawings, and the free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with section H-H.
(e) Body strap, hardware, and reinforcing tape. The body strap, hardware, and reinforcing tape shall be arranged as shown on the drawings and attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching indicated.
(f) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch. Both ends of the stitching forming the shoulder hinge seams and the top and bottom closing seams of the envelope shall be backstitched approximately
(g) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.047-5 Inspections and tests.
1
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests shall—
(1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the manufacturing methods and the finished product to meet the requirements of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced;
(2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and to the Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the device including affidavits from suppliers; and
(3) Permit any examination, inspection, and test required by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a listed and labeled device, either at the place of manufacture, or some other location.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot consists of 500 buoyant vests or fewer.
(2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed;
(3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection;
(4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the requirements in Table 160.047-5(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to be tested by the inspector in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section;
Table 160.047-5(
| Lot size | Number of vests in sample |
|---|---|
| 100 and under | 1 |
| 101 to 200 | 2 |
| 201 to 300 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 4 |
(5) The recognized laboratory must assign an inspector to a plant when notified that a lot is ready for inspection, to conduct tests and inspections on samples selected in accordance with paragraph (b)(4) of this section.
(6) If a vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the next succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(c) Additional tests. An inspector from the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test, and inspection of a listed and labeled buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer or through commercial channels to determine its conformance to the applicable requirements.
(d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to—
(1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that is included in the construction of the device; and
(2) Conduct any necessary examination, inspection, or test in a suitable place and with appropriate apparatus provided by the manufacturer.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant pad inserts from the vest and cut three slits each not less than 2 inches in length and not less than 2 inches apart on both sides of each pad. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the pads, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the pads inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the pads have once been submerged they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the weighted wire basket with the pads inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
(2) Buoyancy required. The pad inserts from adult buoyant vests shall provide not less than 16 pounds buoyancy; the pad inserts from child medium vests shall provide not less than 11 pounds buoyancy; and the pad inserts from child small vests shall provide not less than 7
(f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly, including hardware, shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full length. A weight as specified in § 160.047-3(f) shall be attached to the other end on the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.
§ 160.047-6 Marking.
(a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
(b) Waterproof marking tags. Marking for buoyant vests shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.047-7 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.048—Specification for a Buoyant Cushion, Fibrous Glass
§ 160.048-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Military specification:
(2) Federal Specifications:
(3) Federal standard:
(4) Coast Guard specification:
(b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.048-1.
(c) Copies on File. Copies of the specifications and plan referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard specification and plan may be obtained upon request from Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington; DC 20407. The Military Specification may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.048-2 Types and sizes.
(a) Types. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have top, bottom and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not acceptable.
(b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square inches top surface area; widths and lengths which fall within the dimensions shown in Tables 160.048-4(c)(1)(i) and 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii); and thickness not less than 2 nor more than 3 inches, the thickness to be considered as the finished width of the gusset between seams.
§ 160.048-3 Materials.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
(b) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with Specification subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
(c) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall comply with the requirements of specification MIL-B-2766.
(d) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (d) (1) and (2) of this section are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions, but alternate materials will be given special consideration. Pro rata widths of like construction will be acceptable.
(1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 material.
(2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
(e) Pad covering. The covering for the buoyant pad inserts shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness meeting the requirements of Federal Specification L-P-375 for Type I or II, Class 1, film.
(f) Grab straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for the cover, or approved equivalent.
(g) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(h) Welting. The welting where used may be any fiber or plastic material suitable for the purpose.
§ 160.048-4 Construction and workmanship.
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box type filled with kapok or fibrous glass contained in heat-sealed vinyl film pad covers which are inserted in an outer cover fitted with grab straps. The primary purpose of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to aid a person in keeping afloat in the water. No hooks, snaps, or other means shall be included which might facilitate fastening the cushion to a boat. Buoyant cushions shall be of such size and volume as to provide not less than 20 pounds buoyancy when tested in the manner described in § 160.048-5(e), but no cushion providing less than 225 square inches of top surface area or measuring less than 2 inches or more than 3 inches in thickness will be acceptable.
(b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for seam types SSw-2 or LS(b)-2. The top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by § 160.048-3(c)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but coated upholstery cloth specified by § 160.048-3(d)(2), perforated to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
(c) Buoyant material. Buoyant cushions shall be filled with the minimum amounts of kapok or fibrous glass determined as follows:
(1) Rectangular buoyant cushions 2 inches thick shall be filled with the amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for the various widths and lengths of such cushions by Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii), as applicable. Trapezoidal buoyant cushions 2 inches thick shall be filled with the amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for the various widths and lengths of rectangular buoyant cushions by Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii) as applicable, on the basis that the length of a trapezoidal cushion shall be considered as its average length in each case.
Table 160.048-4(
| Length (inches) | Width (inches) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | Over 24 | |
| 15 | 20 | |||||||||||||
| 16 | 21 | 23 | ||||||||||||
| 17 | 21 | 23 | 24 | 26 | ||||||||||
| 18 | 21 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 27 | 29 | ||||||||
| 19 | 20 | 22 | 24 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 30 | 32 | ||||||
| 20 | 21 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | |||||
| 21 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 35 | 37 | 39 | ||||
| 22 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 37 | 39 | 41 | 43 | |||
| 23 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 37 | 39 | 41 | 43 | 45 | 47 | ||
| 24 | 26 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 43 | 45 | 47 | 49 | 51 | |
| 25 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 33 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 47 | 49 | 51 | 53 | ( 1) |
| 26 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 35 | 37 | 39 | 42 | 44 | 46 | 49 | 51 | 53 | 55 | ( 1) |
| 27 | 29 | 31 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 43 | 46 | 48 | 50 | 53 | 55 | 58 | ( 1) |
| 28 | 30 | 32 | 35 | 37 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 47 | 50 | 52 | 55 | 57 | 60 | ( 1) |
| 29 | 31 | 34 | 36 | 39 | 41 | 44 | 46 | 49 | 52 | 54 | 57 | 59 | 62 | ( 1) |
| 30 | 32 | 35 | 37 | 40 | 43 | 45 | 48 | 51 | 53 | 56 | 59 | 61 | 64 | ( 1) |
| 31 | 33 | 36 | 39 | 41 | 44 | 47 | 50 | 52 | 55 | 58 | 61 | 63 | 66 | ( 1) |
| 32 | 34 | 37 | 40 | 43 | 46 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 57 | 60 | 62 | 65 | 68 | ( 1) |
| 33 | 35 | 38 | 41 | 44 | 47 | 50 | 53 | 56 | 59 | 62 | 64 | 67 | 70 | ( 1) |
| 34 | 36 | 39 | 42 | 45 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 57 | 60 | 63 | 66 | 69 | 73 | ( 1) |
| 35 | 37 | 40 | 44 | 47 | 50 | 53 | 56 | 59 | 62 | 65 | 68 | 72 | 75 | ( 1) |
| 36 | 38 | 42 | 45 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 58 | 61 | 64 | 67 | 70 | 74 | 77 | ( 1) |
| Over 36 | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) |
1 Determine amount of kapok from formula (1) contained in § 160.048-4(c)(2).
Table 160.048-4(
| Length (inches) | Width (inches) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | Over 24 | |
| 15 | 36 | |||||||||||||
| 16 | 38 | 41 | ||||||||||||
| 17 | 38 | 41 | 44 | 46 | ||||||||||
| 18 | 37 | 40 | 43 | 46 | 49 | 52 | ||||||||
| 19 | 36 | 40 | 43 | 46 | 49 | 52 | 55 | 58 | ||||||
| 20 | 38 | 42 | 45 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 58 | 61 | 64 | |||||
| 21 | 40 | 44 | 47 | 50 | 54 | 57 | 60 | 64 | 67 | 71 | ||||
| 22 | 42 | 46 | 49 | 53 | 56 | 60 | 63 | 67 | 70 | 74 | 77 | |||
| 23 | 44 | 48 | 52 | 55 | 59 | 63 | 66 | 70 | 74 | 77 | 81 | 85 | ||
| 24 | 46 | 50 | 54 | 58 | 61 | 65 | 69 | 73 | 77 | 81 | 84 | 88 | 92 | |
| 25 | 48 | 52 | 56 | 60 | 64 | 68 | 72 | 76 | 80 | 84 | 88 | 92 | 96 | ( 1) |
| 26 | 50 | 54 | 58 | 62 | 67 | 71 | 75 | 79 | 83 | 87 | 92 | 96 | 100 | ( 1) |
| 27 | 52 | 56 | 60 | 65 | 69 | 73 | 78 | 82 | 86 | 91 | 95 | 99 | 104 | ( 1) |
| 28 | 54 | 58 | 63 | 67 | 72 | 76 | 81 | 85 | 90 | 94 | 99 | 103 | 108 | ( 1) |
| 29 | 56 | 60 | 65 | 70 | 74 | 79 | 84 | 88 | 93 | 97 | 102 | 107 | 111 | ( 1) |
| 30 | 58 | 62 | 67 | 72 | 77 | 82 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 101 | 106 | 110 | 115 | ( 1) |
| 31 | 60 | 64 | 69 | 74 | 79 | 84 | 89 | 94 | 99 | 104 | 109 | 114 | 119 | ( 1) |
| 32 | 61 | 67 | 72 | 77 | 82 | 87 | 92 | 97 | 103 | 108 | 113 | 118 | 123 | ( 1) |
| 33 | 63 | 69 | 74 | 79 | 84 | 90 | 95 | 100 | 106 | 111 | 116 | 121 | 127 | ( 1) |
| 34 | 65 | 71 | 76 | 82 | 87 | 92 | 98 | 103 | 109 | 114 | 120 | 125 | 131 | ( 1) |
| 35 | 67 | 73 | 78 | 84 | 90 | 95 | 101 | 106 | 112 | 118 | 123 | 129 | 134 | ( 1) |
| 36 | 69 | 75 | 81 | 86 | 92 | 98 | 104 | 109 | 115 | 121 | 127 | 132 | 138 | ( 1) |
| Over 36 | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) | ( 1) |
1 Determine amount of fibrous glass from formula (2) contained in § 160.048-4(c)(2).
(2) All buoyant cushions more than 2 inches thick, and all buoyant cushions 2 inches thick which are of shapes different from those covered by paragraph (c)(1) of this section, shall be filled with kapok or fibrous glass as determined in the following formulas:
(d) Pad covers for buoyant material. Before being inserted in the outer cover the buoyant material shall be placed in waterproof vinyl film pad covers which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when one inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches per minute. Each cushion shall contain not less than four pads and all pads in a cushion shall contain approximately equal portions of the total amount of buoyant material in the cushion. The buoyant material may be inserted directly into the vinyl film pad covers, or may first be packed in bags made of print cloth or other suitable material and then inserted into the vinyl film pad covers. The pads shall be of such size as to adequately fill the outer cover, and prior to sealing, the pads shall be evacuated of air sufficiently that when sat on the pads will not “balloon” excessively because of the pressure in the pad covers. For 15″ × 15″ × 2″ cushions the four vinyl film pad covers shall each be cut approximately 12″ wide × 12″ long or approximately 8″ wide × 18″ long shall have a sealed area of approximately 125 square inches; shall contain not less than 5 ounces of kapok or 9 ounces of fibrous glass each; and the volume displacement of the individual heat-sealed pad inserts shall be 5
(e) Grab straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 160.048-1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
(f) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less than a
(g) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability. Cushions classified as “seconds” or “irregular” will not be acceptable under this specification.
§ 160.048-5 Inspections and tests.
1
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, inspections and test which are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a lot of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with Table 160.048-5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.048-5(
| Lot size | No. of cushions in sample |
|---|---|
| 200 and under | 1 |
| 201 to 400 | 2 |
| 401 to 600 | 3 |
| 601 to 1,000 | 4 |
(2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample cushion failed the buoyancy test, the sample shall consist of not less than 10 specimen cushions to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard.
(d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant pad inserts from the cushion and cut three slits in the vinyl film, each not less than 6 inches in length on both sides of each pad. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the pads, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the pads. To obtain the buoyancy of the pads, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the pads inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the pads have once been submerged that they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the weighted wire basket with the pads inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
(2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pads from the cushion shall provide not less than 20 pounds total buoyancy.
§ 160.048-6 Marking.
(a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
(2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:
(b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.048-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, which are 2 inches thick, and which are filled with kapok or fibrous glass in accordance with § 160.048-4(c)(1).
(b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately to each manufacturer for each kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushion he proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group approval provided by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: A kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically provided for by this subpart; or any buoyant cushion more than 2 inches thick; or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
(c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label of the recognized laboratory.
§ 160.048-8 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performed production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.049—Specification for a Buoyant Cushion Plastic Foam
§ 160.049-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Federal Specifications:
(2) Federal standard:
(3) Coast Guard specifications:
(4) Military specifications.
(b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.049-1.
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plan referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard specifications and plan may be obtained upon request from Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
§ 160.049-2 Types and sizes.
(a) Type. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have top, bottom, and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not acceptable.
(b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square inches of top surface area, shall contain not less than 630 cubic inches of buoyant material, shall not be less than 2 inches thick, and shall have width no less than 12 inches and length no less than 15 inches, respectively.
§ 160.049-3 Materials.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019.
(b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be all new material complying with the requirements of Specification subpart 164.015 for Type A or B foam.
(c) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (c) (1) and (2) of this section, are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions. Vinyl-dip coating meeting the requirements set forth in paragraph (c)(3) of this section will also be acceptable. Alternate materials will be given special consideration. Pro rata widths of like construction will be acceptable.
(1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 material.
(2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
(3) Vinyl-dip. The vinyl-dip coating shall comply with the coating requirements of § 160.055-5(b)(2) except there are no color restrictions.
(4) Adhesive. The adhesive shall be an all-purpose waterproof vinyl type. Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. EC-870 or EC-1070, United States Rubber Co. M6256, Herculite Protective Fabrics Corp. CVV, Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. R.828, or equal, are acceptable.
(5) Reinforcing fabric. The reinforcing fabric shall be type II, class I, laminated vinyl-nylon high strength cloth in accordance with the requirements of Specification MIL-C-43006.
(d) Grab Straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for the cover, or approved equivalent.
(e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(f) Welting. The welting where used may be of any fiber or plastic material suitable for the purpose.
§ 160.049-4 Construction and workmanship.
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box type filled with unicellular plastic foam buoyant material. Such cushions consist essentially of a buoyant insert contained in an outer cover fitted with grab straps. The primary purpose of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to aid a person in keeping afloat in the water. Buoyant cushions providing less than 20 pounds buoyancy or less than 2 inches in thickness will not be acceptable.
(b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for Seam types SSw-2 or LSb-2. The top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by § 160.049-3(b)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but coated upholstery cloth specified by § 160.049-3(c)(2), perforated to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
(c) Buoyant material. A buoyant insert for a buoyant cushion must comply with the requirements in paragraph (c) (1) and (2) of this section and may be:
(1) Molded in one piece; or
(2) Built up from sheet material if it is formed from:
(i) Three pieces or less in each layer, cemented together with an all-purpose vinyl adhesive such as or equivalent to U.S. Rubber No. M-6256 or Minnesota Mining No. EC-870 and No. EC-1070;
(ii) Three layers or less that may be cemented; and
(iii) Staggered butts and seams of adjacent layers.
(d) Grab Straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 160,049-1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
(e) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less than a
(f) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability. Cushions classified as “seconds” or “irregular” will not be acceptable under this specification.
§ 160.049-5 Inspections and tests.
1
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, inspections and tests which are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a lot of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with table 160.049-5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.049-5(
| Lot size | Number of cushions in sample |
|---|---|
| 200 and under | 1 |
| 201 to 400 | 2 |
| 401 to 600 | 3 |
| 601 to 1,000 | 4 |
(c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted by the recognized laboratory or the U.S. Coast Guard.
(d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the cushion, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the cushion. To obtain the buoyancy of the cushion, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the cushion inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the cushion has once been submerged that it shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall it be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the weighted wire basket with the cushion inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
(2) Buoyancy required. Each cushion shall provide not less than 20 pounds buoyancy.
§ 160.049-6 Marking.
(a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
(2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:
(b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.049-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, and which are in accordance with § 160.049-4(c)(1).
(b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately to each manufacturer for each unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushion he proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group approval provided for by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: a buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically provided for by this subpart, or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
(c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label of the recognized laboratory.
§ 160.049-8 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.050—Specification for a Buoy, Life Ring, Unicellular Plastic
§ 160.050-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Standard. This subpart makes reference to Federal Standard No. 595-Colors in § 160.050-3.
(b) Copies on file. The Federal Standard may be obtained from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
§ 160.050-2 Types and sizes.
(a) Type. Life buoys shall be of the annular ring type as described in this subpart, but alternate arrangements meeting the performance requirements set forth will be given special consideration.
(b) Sizes. Ring life buoys shall be of the sizes set forth in Table 160.050-2(b). A tolerance of a plus or minus 5 percent will be allowable on the dimensions indicated in Table 160.050-2(b).
Table 160.050-2(
| Size | Dimensions (inches) Finished ring |
|---|---|
| 30-inch | 30 |
| 24-inch | 24 |
| 20-inch | 20 |
§ 160.050-3 Materials.
(a) General. All exposed materials must be resistant to oil or oil products, salt water and anticipated weather conditions encountered at sea. All components used in construction of buoys and life rings must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
(b) Unicellular plastic. The unicellular plastic material used in fabrication of the buoy body shall meet the requirements of subpart 164.015 of this subchapter for Type C material. The buoy’s body shall be finished with two coats of vinyl base paint. The ring life buoys shall be either international orange (Color No. 12197 of Federal Standard 595) or white in color and the colorfastness shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
On vessels on an international voyage, all ring life buoys shall be international orange in color.)
(c) Grab line. The grab line shall be
(d) Beckets. The beckets for securing the grab line shall be 2-inch polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, saran or other suitable synthetic material having a minimum breaking strength of 585 pounds. In addition, polyethylene and polypropylene shall be weather-resistant type which is stabilized as to heat, oxidation, and ultraviolet light degradation.
(e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
§ 160.050-4 Construction and workmanship.
(a) General. This specification covers ring life buoys which provide buoyancy to aid in keeping persons afloat in the water. Each buoy consists of a body constructed in the shape of an annular ring, with an approximately elliptical body cross section and which is fitted with a grab line around the outside periphery. The outside and inside diameters of the ring and the length and width of the cross section of the body shall be uniform throughout.
(b) Body. The body shall be made in either one or two pieces. If of two pieces, the pieces shall be equal in size and shall be adhesive bonded along a center line through an axis passing through the flat area dimension of the body. The adhesive shall be a liquid cold setting, polymerizable, nonsolvent, containing material of the phenolepichlorhydrin type or equivalent having good strength retention under outdoor weathering conditions.
(c) Grab line. The finished length of the grab line shall be four times the outside diameter of the buoy. The ends of the grab line shall be securely and neatly spliced together, or shall be hand whipped with a needle and both ends securely and smoothly seized together. The grab line shall encircle the buoy and shall be held in place by the beckets. The spliced or seized ends of the grab line shall be placed in the center of the width of one of the beckets.
(d) Beckets. Each ring buoy shall be fitted with four beckets located at equidistant points about the body of the buoy. The beckets shall be passed around the body of the buoy with the free ends to the outside, and shall be securely cemented to the buoy with a suitable waterproof adhesive which is compatible with the unicellular plastic used in the buoy body. The ends of the beckets shall be turned under at least 1 inch, one end to go around the grab line, and the other to be laid flat against the first end. The beckets shall then be stitched to the grab line with not less than five hand stitches made with two parts of thread or machined stitched with not less than three stitches per inch. Alternate methods for rigging beckets and grab line will be given special consideration.
(e) Weight. The weight of the completely assembled buoy shall be not less than 2.5 pounds and not more than 4.25 pounds for the 20-inch size, not less than 3.0 pounds and not more than 5.5 pounds for the 24-inch size, and not less than 5.0 and not more than 7.5 pounds for the 30-inch size.
(f) Workmanship. Ring life buoys shall be of first class workmanship and free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.050-5 Sampling, tests, and inspection.
(a) General. Production tests and inspections must be conducted in accordance with this section, subpart 159.007 of this chapter, and if conducted by an independent laboratory, the independent laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests as accepted by the Commandant. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subchapter.
(b) Oversight. In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter and the accepted laboratory procedures for production inspections and tests, each manufacturer of a ring life buoy and each laboratory inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
(1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must—
(i) Perform all tests and examinations necessary to show compliance with this subpart and the subpart under which the ring life buoy is approved on each lot before any inspector’s tests and inspection of the lot;
(ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product; and
(iii) Allow an inspector to take samples of completed units or of component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests relating to the safety of the design.
(iv) Meet 33 CFR 181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which requires an instruction pamphlet for each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational boats, and must make the pamphlet accessible prior to purchase.
(2) Laboratory. An inspector from the accepted laboratory shall oversee production in accordance with the laboratory’s procedures for production inspections and tests accepted by the Commandant. During production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any production test or inspection unless—
(i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and
(ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer’s production methods and any revisions to those methods.
(3) At least quarterly, the inspector shall check the manufacturer’s compliance with the company’s quality control procedures, examine the manufacturer’s required records, and observe the manufacturer perform each of the required production tests.
(c) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and apparatus for conducting the tests and inspections necessary to determine compliance of ring life buoys with this subpart. The manufacturer shall provide means to secure any test that is not continuously observed, such as the 48 hour buoyancy test. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked in accordance with the test equipment manufacturer’s recommendation and interval but not less than at least once every year.
(d) Lots. A lot may not consist of more than 1000 life buoys. A lot number must be assigned to each group of life buoys produced. Lots must be numbered serially. A new lot must be started whenever any change in materials or a revision to a production method is made, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the ring life buoy manufacturer to determine the supplier’s identifying information for the component lot.
(e) Samples. (1) From each lot of ring life buoys, manufacturers shall randomly select a number of samples from completed units at least equal to the applicable number required by table 160.050-5(e) for buoyancy testing. Additional samples must be selected for any tests, examinations, and inspections required by the laboratory’s production inspections and tests procedures.
Table 160.050-5(
| Lot size | Number of life buoys in sample |
|---|---|
| 100 and under | 1 |
| 101 to 200 | 2 |
| 201 to 300 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 4 |
| 501 to 750 | 6 |
| 751 to 1000 | 8 |
(2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample ring life buoy failed the buoyancy or strength test, the sample shall consist of not less than ten specimen ring life buoys to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (f) of this section.
(f) Tests—(1) Strength test. The buoy body shall be suspended by a 2-inch-wide strap. A similar strap shall be passed around the opposite side of the buoy and a 200-pound weight suspended by it from the buoy. After 30 minutes, the buoy body shall be examined, and there shall be no breaks, cracks or permanent deformation.
(2) Resistance to damage test. The buoy body shall be dropped three times from a height of 6 feet onto concrete, and there shall be no breaks or cracks in the body.
(3) Buoyancy test. To obtain the buoyancy of the buoy, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh iron or other weight under water. The weight shall be more than sufficient to submerge the buoy.
(ii) Attach the iron or other weight to the buoy and submerge with the top of the buoy at least 2 inches below the surface for 48 hours.
(iii) After the 48-hour submergence period, weigh the buoy with the weight attached while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (f)(3)(i) minus paragraph (f)(3)(iii) of this section.
(4) Buoyancy required. The buoys shall provide a buoyancy of not less than 16.5 pounds for the 20-and 24-inch sizes, and not less than 32 pounds for the 30-inch size.
(g) Lot inspection. On each lot, the laboratory inspector shall perform a final lot inspection to be satisfied that the ring life buoys meet this subpart. Each lot must demonstrate—
(1) First quality workmanship;
(2) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components are as specified in the approved plans and specifications; and
(3) Compliance with the marking requirements in the applicable approval subpart.
(h) Lot acceptance. When the independent laboratory has determined that the ring life buoys in the lot are of a type officially approved in the name of the company, and that such ring life buoys meet the requirements of this subpart, they shall be plainly marked in waterproof ink with the independent laboratory’s name or identifying mark.
(i) Lot rejection. Each nonconforming unit must be rejected. If three or more nonconforming units are rejected for the same kind of defect, lot inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected. The inspector must discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if examination of individual units or the records for the lot shows noncompliance with either this subchapter or the laboratory’s or the manufacturer’s quality control procedures. A rejected unit or lot may be resubmitted for testing and inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each defective unit or, if authorized by the laboratory, reworks the unit or lot to correct the defect. A rejected lot or rejected unit may not be sold or offered for sale under the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is Coast Guard-approved.
§ 160.050-6 Marking.
(a) Each ring buoy must have the following information in waterproof lettering:
(b) A method of marking that is different from the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section may be given consideration by the Coast Guard.
§ 160.050-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) General. Designs of ring life buoys are approved only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval of a ring life buoy design shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) Each application for approval of a ring life buoy must contain the information specified in § 159.005-5 of this chapter. The application and, except as provided in paragraphs (c) and (d)(2) of this section, a prototype ring life buoy must be submitted to the Commandant for preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, the Commandant may waive the preapproval review under §§ 159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this chapter.
(c) If the ring life buoy is of a standard design, the application:
(1) Must include the following: A statement of any exceptions to the standard plans and specifications, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and/or bill of materials.
(2) Need not include: The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2).
(d) If the ring life buoy is of a non-standard design, the application must include the following:
(1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by § 159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
(2) The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through (iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype ring life buoy sample to the Commandant.
(3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an independent laboratory that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coast Guard under § 159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-water testing of personal flotation devices showing equivalence to the standard design’s performance in all material respects.
(4) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with during production.
(5) The text of any optional marking to be included on the ring life buoy in addition to the markings required by the applicable approval subpart.
(6) For any conditionally approved ring life buoy, the intended approval condition(s).
(e) The description of quality control procedures required by § 159.005-9 of this chapter may be omitted if the manufacturer’s planned quality control procedures meet the requirements of those accepted by the Commandant for the independent laboratory performing production inspections and tests.
(f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant waive any test prescribed for approval under the applicable subpart. To request a waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the laboratory described in § 159.010, one of the following:
(1) Satisfactory test results on a ring life buoy of sufficiently similar design as determined by the Commandant.
(2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, it is not possible for the ring life buoy to fail that test.
Subpart 160.051—Inflatable Liferafts for Domestic Service
§ 160.051-1 Scope.
(a) This subpart prescribes requirements for approval by the Coast Guard of A, B, and Coastal Service inflatable liferafts for use only in domestic service. These liferafts must comply with all of the requirements for SOLAS A and SOLAS B liferafts in subpart 160.151 except as specified in this subpart.
(b) This subpart does not apply to any A, B, and Coastal Service inflatable liferaft for use only in domestic service that has been approved by the Coast Guard before November 10, 2011, so long as the liferaft satisfies the annual servicing requirements set forth in 46 CFR 160.151-57.
§ 160.051-3 Definitions.
In this subpart, the term:
A or B liferaft means an inflatable liferaft that meets the requirements prescribed in subpart 160.151 for a SOLAS A or SOLAS B liferaft, respectively, except that the capacity is less than 6 persons and the liferaft cannot contain SOLAS markings.
Coastal Service liferaft means a liferaft that does not meet the all of the requirements prescribed in subpart 160.151 for a SOLAS A or SOLAS B liferaft, but that instead meets the requirements of this subpart and is approved for use on certain uninspected vessels under subchapter C of this chapter.
Commandant means Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
§ 160.051-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the following paragraph of this section.
(b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.051-7 and 160.051-9.
(2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.051-7 and 160.051-11.
§ 160.051-7 Design and performance of Coastal Service inflatable liferafts.
To obtain Coast Guard approval, each Coastal Service inflatable liferaft must comply with subpart 160.151, with the following exceptions:
(a) Canopy requirements (IMO LSA Code chapter IV/4.1.1.5, (incorporated by reference, see § 160.051-5 of this subpart)). The canopy may—
(1) Be of a type that is furled when the liferaft inflates and that can be set in place by the occupants. A furled canopy must be secured to the buoyancy tubes over 50 percent or more of the liferaft’s circumference;
(2) Be of an uninsulated, single-ply design; and
(3) Have an interior of any color.
(b) Viewing port (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.1.5.5). The liferaft need not have the viewing port.
(c) Rainwater collection (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.1.5.6). The liferaft need not have the means of rainwater collection.
(d) Capacity (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying capacity must be not less than four persons.
(e) Floor insulation (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.2.2). The floor may be uninsulated.
(f) Boarding ramps (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.1). The liferaft need be provided with boarding ramps only if the combined cross-section diameter of the buoyancy chambers is greater than 500 mm (19.5 in).
(g) Stability (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5). Each Coastal Service inflatable liferaft must either meet the stability criteria in § 160.151-17(a) or be fitted with water-containing stability pockets meeting the following requirements:
(1) The total volume of the pockets must be not less than 25 percent of the minimum required volume of the principal buoyancy compartments of the liferaft.
(2) The pockets must be securely attached and evenly distributed around the periphery of the exterior bottom of the liferaft. They may be omitted at the locations of inflation cylinders.
(3) The pockets must be designed to deploy underwater when the liferaft inflates. If weights are used for this purpose, they must be of corrosion-resistant material.
(h) Lamp (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.3.4). The liferaft need not have the manually controlled interior lamp.
(i) Markings (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.3.6). The words “COASTAL SERVICE” must appear on the container, and the type of equipment pack must be identified as “Coastal Service”. No “SOLAS” markings may appear on the container.
(j) Drop test. The drop test required under paragraph 1/5.1 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see § 160.051-5 of this subpart) and 160.151-27(a) may be from a lesser height, if that height is the maximum height of stowage marked on the container.
(k) Loading and seating test. For the loading and seating test required under paragraph 1/5.7 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and § 160.151-27(a), the loaded freeboard of the liferaft must be not less than 200 mm (8 in.).
(l) Cold-inflation test. The cold-inflation test required under paragraph 1/5.17.3.3.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and § 160.151-27(a) must be conducted at a test temperature of −18 °C (0 °F).
§ 160.051-9 Design and performance of A and B inflatable liferafts.
To obtain Coast Guard approval, each A and B inflatable liferaft must comply with the requirements in subpart 160.151, with the following exceptions:
(a) Capacity (IMO LSA Code chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying capacity must be not less than four persons.
(b) Markings (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.6.3). The type of equipment pack must be identified as “A” or “B”, respectively, instead of “SOLAS A” or “SOLAS B”. No “SOLAS” markings may appear on the container.
§ 160.051-11 Equipment required for Coastal Service inflatable liferafts.
In lieu of the equipment specified in § 160.151-21, the following equipment must be provided with a Coastal Service inflatable liferaft:
(a) Rescue quoit and heaving line. One rescue quoit and a heaving line as described in § 160.151-21(a).
(b) Knife. One knife, of a type designed to minimize the chance of damage to the inflatable liferaft and secured with a lanyard. In addition, an inflatable liferaft that is permitted to accommodate 13 persons or more must be provided with a second knife that is of the non-folding type. Any knife may be replaced with a jackknife meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16).
(c) Bailer. One bailer as described in § 160.151-21(c).
(d) Sponge. One sponge as described in § 160.151-21(d).
(e) Sea anchor. One sea anchor as described in § 160.151-21(e).
(f) Paddles. Two paddles of the same size and type as used to pass the maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see § 160.051-5 of this subpart).
(g) Whistle. One whistle as described in § 160.151-21(i) of this part.
(h) Flashlight. One flashlight with spare batteries as described in § 160.151-21(m).
(i) Signalling mirror. One signalling mirror as described in § 160.151-21(o).
(j) Survival instructions. Instructions on how to survive as described in § 160.151-21(v).
(k) Instructions for immediate action. Instructions for immediate action as described in § 160.151-21(w).
(l) Repair outfit. One set of sealing clamps or plugs as described in § 160.151-21(y)(1).
(m) Pump or bellows. One pump or bellows as described in § 160.151-21(z).
(n) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for pressure-relief valves as described in § 160.151-21(aa).
Subpart 160.052—Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and Child
§ 160.052-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents.
(1) [Reserved]
(2) Military specification:
(3) Federal Standards:
(4) Coast Guard specifications:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date buoyant vests are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(c) Copies on file. The manufacturer shall keep a copy of each specification and plan required by this section on file together with the certificate of approval. Plans and specifications may be obtained as follows:
(1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained upon request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509, or a recognized laboratory listed in § 160.052-8b.
(2) The Federal Specifications and Standards may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
(3) The military specification may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.052-2 Size and model.
(a) A standard buoyant vest is manufactured in accordance with a plan specified in § 160.052-1(b) and is a:
(1) Model AP, adult (for persons over 90 pounds);
(2) Model CPM, child, medium (for persons weighing from 50 to 90 pounds); or
(3) Model CPS, child, small (for persons weighing less than 50 pounds).
(b) A nonstandard buoyant vest is:
(1) Manufactured in accordance with the manufacturer’s approved plan;
(2) Equivalent in performance to the standard buoyant vest; and
(3) Assigned a model designation by the manufacturer for the following sizes:
(i) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds);
(ii) Child, medium (for persons weighing from 50 to 90 pounds);
(iii) Child, small (for persons weighing less than 50 pounds).
§ 160.052-3 Materials—standard vests.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data and samples of all proposed alternate materials shall be submitted for approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished product.
(b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be all new material complying with the requirements of specification Subpart 164.015 of this subchapter for Type A or B foam.
(c) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made from 39″, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of approximately 96 × 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 ounces per square yard, shall have thread count of not less than 94 × 60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
(d) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap loops for both adult and child sizes must be
(d-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly, including hardware, must have a minimum breaking strength of 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the webbing are as follows:
(1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch;
(2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-quarter inch and meet the requirements of military specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIa webbing.
(e) [Reserved]
(f) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
§ 160.052-3a Materials—Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
(a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
(1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion resistant materials includes, but is not limited to brass, bronze, and stainless steel.
(2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with the webbing which will pass through the opening.
(b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must—
(1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which one or more of the following tests will be used:
(i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a temperature of 95 °F (35 °C) for a period of 240 hours in accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal Test Method Standard No. 151.
(ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weatherometer for a period of 100 hours.
(iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the following:
(a) Leaded gasoline.
(b) Gum turpentine.
(iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0° ±5 °F (17.6 ±2.775 °C) for 24 hours; and
(2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size for 10 minutes at ambient temperatures without breaking or distorting.
§ 160.052-4 Materials—nonstandard vests.
(a) General. All materials used in nonstandard buoyant vests must be equivalent to those specified in § 160.052-3 and be obtained from a supplier who furnishes an affidavit in accordance with the requirement in § 160.052-3(a).
(b) Cover. A vinyl-dip coating may be allowed for the covering of the vest instead of a fabric envelope if the coating meets the requirements in § 160.055-5(b)(2) of this chapter except there is no color restriction.
(c) Reinforcing tape. When used, the reinforcing tape around the neck shall be
§ 160.052-5 Construction—standard vests.
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which essentially consist of a fabric envelope in which are enclosed inserts of buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an upright or slightly backward position with head and face out of water. The buoyant vests are also fitted with straps and hardware to provide for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit to the bodies of various size wearers.
(b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be made of three pieces. Two pieces of fabric shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.052-1, Sheet 1 for adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 for child sizes, and joined together with a third piece which forms a 2″ finished gusset strip all around. Reinforcing strips of the same material as the envelope shall be stitched to the inside of the front piece of the envelope in way of the strap attachments as shown by the drawings.
(c) Buoyant inserts. The unicellular plastic foam buoyant inserts shall be cut and formed as shown on Dwg. 160.052-1, Sheet 4.
(d) Tie tapes, body straps, and hardware. The tie tapes, body straps, and hardware shall be arranged as shown on the drawings and attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching indicated.
(e) Stitching. All stitching shall be short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
(f) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or service-ability.
§ 160.052-6 Construction—nonstandard vests.
(a) General. The construction methods used for nonstandard buoyant vests must be equivalent to those requirements in § 160.052-5 for a standard vest and also meet the requirements in this section.
(b) Size. Each nonstandard vest must contain the following volume of plastic foam buoyant material, determined by the displacement method:
(1) Five hundred cubic inches or more for an adult size;
(2) Three hundred and fifty cubic inches or more for a child, medium size;
(3) Two hundred and twenty-five cubic inches or more for a child, small size.
(c) Arrangement of buoyant material. The buoyant material in a nonstandard vest must:
(1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward position with head and face out of water;
(2) Have no tendency to turn a wearer face downward in the water; and
(3) Be arranged so that 70 to 75 percent of the total is located in the front of the vest.
(d) Neck opening. Each cloth-covered nonstandard vest must have at the neck opening:
(1) A gusset; or
(2) Reinforcing tape.
(e) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard vest must be made with adjustments to:
(1) Fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
(2) Facilitate donning time for an uninitiated person.
§ 160.052-7 Inspections and tests—standard and nonstandard vests.
1
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests shall—
(1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the manufacturing methods and workmanship, and the finished product to meet the requirements of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced;
(2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and the Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the device, including affidavits by supplier; and
(3) Permit any examination, inspection, and test required by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a produced listed and labeled device, either at the place of manufacture or some other location.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot consists of 500 buoyant vests or fewer.
(2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed.
(3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection.
(4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the requirements in Table 160.052-7(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.052-7(
| Lot size | Number of vests in sample |
|---|---|
| 100 and under | 1 |
| 101 to 200 | 2 |
| 201 to 300 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 4 |
(5) The manufacturer shall test—
(i) At least one vest from each lot for buoyancy in accordance with procedures contained in paragraph (e) of this section; and
(ii) At least one vest in each 10 lots for strength of the body strap assembly in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph (f) of this section.
(6) If a vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the next succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(7) The manufacturer shall keep on file and make available to the laboratory inspector and Coast Guard inspector the records of inspections and tests, together with affidavits concerning the material.
(c) Additional compliance tests. An inspector from the recognized laboratory or Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test and inspection of a buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer or through commercial channels to determine the suitability of the device for listing and labeling or to determine its conformance to applicable requirements.
(d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to—
(1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that is included in the construction of the device; and
(2) Conduct any necessary examination, inspection, or test in a suitable place and with appropriate apparatus provided by the manufacturer.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts from the vests. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the inserts, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the inserts have once been submerged they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section minus paragraph (e)(i)(iii) of this section.
(2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from adult size buoyant vests shall provide not less than 15
(f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly including hardware, shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full length. A weight as specified in § 160.052-3(d) shall be attached to the other end of the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.
(g) Additional approval tests for nonstandard vests. Tests in addition to those required by this section may be conducted by the inspector for nonstandard vests to determine performance equivalence to a standard vest. Such additional tests may include determining performance in water, suitability of materials, donning time, ease of adjustment, and similar equivalency tests. Costs of any additional tests must be assumed by the manufacturer.
§ 160.052-8 Marking.
(a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
(b) Waterproof marking. Marking for buoyant vests shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.052-9 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.053—Work Vests, Unicellular Plastic Foam
§ 160.053-1 Applicable specifications.
(a) Specification. The following specification of the issue in effect on the date unicellular plastic foam work vests are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(1) Military specification: MIL-L-17653A—Life Preserver, Vest, Work Type, Unicellular Plastic.
(2) [Reserved]
(b) Copies on file. Copies of the specification referred to in this section, as well as the various specifications forming a part thereof, shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of approval. Federal specifications may be purchased from the General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400. Military specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.053-2 Type.
(a) Unicellular plastic foam work vests specified by this subpart shall be of the type described in Military Specification MIL-L-17653A, but alternate designs equivalent in materials, construction, performance, and workmanship will be given consideration.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.053-3 Materials, construction and workmanship.
(a) General. Except as otherwise specifically provided by this subpart and subparts 164.019 and 164.023 of this chapter, the materials, construction, and workmanship of unicellular plastic foam work vests specified by this subpart shall conform to the requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-17653A.
(b) Color of envelope. Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, Standard Color Card of America, will be acceptable in lieu of the Scarlet-Munsell 7.5 red
(c) Color of webbing and thread. The color of the webbing and thread need not match the color of the envelope as specified by paragraphs 3.1.3 and 3.2.8 of Specification MIL-L-17653A.
(d) Materials; acceptance and quality. All components used in the construction of work vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
§ 160.053-4 Inspections and tests.
(a) General. Work vests are not inspected at regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, the Commander of the Coast Guard District may detail a marine inspector at any time to visit any place where work vests are manufactured to observe production methods and to conduct any inspections or tests which may be deemed advisable. The marine inspector shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is done on work vests or component materials, and samples of materials entering into construction may be taken by the marine inspector and tests made for compliance with the applicable requirements.
(b) Manufacturer’s inspections and tests. Manufacturers of approved work vests shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods, workmanship, and the finished product so as to meet the requirements of this specification, and shall make full inspections and tests of representative samples from each lot to maintain the quality of their product.
(c) Lot size. A lot shall consist of not more than 500 work vests manufactured at the same time. Lots shall be numbered serially by the manufacturer, and if at any time during the manufacture of a lot, any change or modification in materials or production methods is made, a new lot shall be started.
(d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and shall have on hand the necessary apparatus for conducting buoyancy tests in compliance with this specification. The apparatus shall include accurate spring scales of adequate capacity, weighted wire mesh baskets, and a test tank or tanks which can be locked or sealed in such a manner as to preclude disturbance of work vests undergoing tests or change in water level.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts from the vest. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the inserts, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock the tank and weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section minus paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section.
(2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from work vests shall provide not less than 17
§ 160.053-5 Marking.
(a) Each work vest must have the following information clearly printed in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
(b) Additional marking required. In addition to the wording included on the marking tag, on a front compartment of each work vest there shall be stenciled in waterproof ink in letters not less than one inch in height, the words, “WORK VEST ONLY.”
(c) Waterproofness of marking tags. Marking tags shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 48 hours submergence in water, they will withstand rubbing by hand with moderate pressure while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.053-6 Procedure for approval.
(a) General. Work vests for use on merchant vessels are approved only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval of a work vest shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) If the work vest is of a standard design, as described by § 160.053-3, in order to be approved, the work vest must be tested in accordance with § 160.053-4 by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 159.010.
(c) If the work vest is of a non-standard design, the application must include the following:
(1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by § 159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
(2) The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through (iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype work vest sample to the Commandant.
(3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an independent laboratory, that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coast Guard under § 159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-water testing of personal flotation devices, showing equivalence to the standard design’s performance in all material respects.
(4) Any special purpose(s) for which the work vest is designed and the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
(5) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with during production.
(6) The text of any optional marking to be included on the work vest in addition to the markings required by § 160.053.
Subpart 160.054 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.055—Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and Child, for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.055-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Military Specifications:
(2) Federal Specifications:
(3) Federal Standards:
(4) Standards of ASTM:
(5) Coast Guard specification:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date unicellular plastic foam life preservers are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications, standards, and plans referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard Specification and plans may be obtained upon request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; telephone 703-605-5400. The Military Specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. The ASTM Standards may be purchased from ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959; telephone 877-909-2786 or Web site http://www.astm.org.
§ 160.055-2 Type and model.
Each life preserver specified in this subpart is a:
(a) Standard, bib type, vinyl dip coated:
(1) Model 62, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Model 66, child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds); or
(b) Standard, bib type, cloth covered;
(1) Model 63, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Model 67, child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds); or
(c) Nonstandard, shaped type:
(1) Model,
(2) Model,
§ 160.055-3 Materials—standard life preservers.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of life preservers must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished product.
(b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be all new material complying with the requirements of Subpart 164.015 of this chapter for Type A foam.
(c) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color Association of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y., or Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, and the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After dyeing, the drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (e) of this section. The finished goods shall contain not more than 2 percent residual sizing or other nonfibrous material, shall weigh not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of not less than 74 in the warp and 56 in the filling, and shall have a breaking strength (grab method) of not less than 105 pounds in the warp and 70 pounds in the filling. Properly mildew-inhibited drills meeting the physical requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 drill will be acceptable. If it is proposed to treat the fabric with a fire-retardant substance, full details shall be submitted to the Commandant for determination as to what samples will be needed for testing.
(d) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(e) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be dihydroxydichloro-diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1 percent of the dry weight of the finished goods.
(f) Adhesive. The adhesive shall be an all-purpose waterproof vinyl type. (Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. EC-870 or EC-1070, United States Rubber Co. M-6256, Herculite Protective Fabrics Corp., CVV, Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. R 828, or equal.)
(g) Reinforcing fabric. The reinforcing fabric shall be Type III, Class I, laminated vinyl-nylon high strength cloth in accordance with the requirements of Specification MIL-C-43006.
(h) Webbing. There are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. The complete body strap assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds.
(1) Nylon webbing. This webbing shall be 1-inch wide nylon webbing in accordance with the requirements of Specification MIL-W-17337.
(2) Cotton webbing. This webbing shall be 1-inch cotton webbing meeting the requirements of Specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIb webbing. This webbing shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (e) of this section.
(i) Hardware. All hardware shall be brass, bronze, or stainless steel, and of the approximate size indicated by the drawings. Steel hardware, protected against corrosion by plating, is not acceptable. Snap hook springs shall be phosphor bronze or other suitable corrosion-resistant material. Dee ring, o-ring, slide adjuster and snap hook ends shall be welded or brazed, or they may be a one-piece casting. The complete body strap assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds.
(j) Coating. The coating for the plastic foam shall be a liquid elastomeric vinyl compound. The coating shall be International Orange in color (Color No. 12197 of Federal Standard 595) or Scarlet Munsel 7.5, Red 6/10 and shall meet the following requirements in Table 160.055-3(j):
Table 160.055-3(
| Property | Test method | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | ASTM-D882, Method B, | 1,200 p.s.i., minimum. |
| Ultimate elongation | ASTM-D882, Method B, | 320 percent, minimum. |
| Tear resistance | ASTM-D1004, Constant Elongation Machine | 90 pounds per inch, minimum. |
| Abrasion resistance | FS CCC-T-191, Method 5304, No. 8 cotton duck, 6 lb. tension, 2 lb. pressure | 100,000 double rubs. |
| Blocking | FS CCC-T-191, Method 5872, 30 minutes at 180 °F., | No blocking. |
| Accelerated weathering | FS CCC-T-191, Method 5670, 120 hours | Color change—very slight. Cracking—None. Flexibility—No change. |
| Plasticizer heat loss | FS CCC-A-700, paragraph 4.4.4, 48 hours at 221 °F | 8 percent, maximum. |
| Adhesion to foam—Tensile pull | ASTM-D413, machine method, 12 in. per minute, 1 in. strip | |
| Film to foam skin | 4 lb./in., minimum. | |
| Film to foam (no skin) | 2 lb./in., minimum. | |
| Water absorption | ASTM-D570, 24 hours at 70 °F | 0.5 percent, maximum. |
| Cold crack (unsupported film) 0 °F | Coast Guard, 164.015, paragraph 164.015-4(j) | No cracking. |
§ 160.055-4 Materials—nonstandard life preservers.
All materials used in nonstandard life preservers must be equivalent to those specified in § 160.055-3 for standard life preservers.
§ 160.055-5 Construction—standard life preservers.
(a) General. This specification covers life preservers which essentially consist of plastic foam buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an upright or slightly backward position with head and face clear of the water. The life preservers are also arranged so as to be reversible and are fitted with straps and hardware to provide proper adjustment and fit to the bodies of various size wearers.
(b) Construction—standard, vinyl dip coated life preserver. This device is constructed from one piece of unicellular plastic foam with neck hole and the body slit in the front, vinyl dip coating, and fitted and adjustable body strap.
(1) Buoyant material. The buoyant material of the life preserver shall be a molded shape or made from one or two sheets of foam finished so as to have dimensions after coating in accordance with the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-1A, Sheet 1, for adult size and Sheet 2 for child size. The reinforcing fabric shall be cemented on the foam buoyant body before coating.
(2) Coating. After all cutting and shaping of the buoyant body and installation of the reinforcing fabric, the entire body of the life preserver shall be coated evenly and smoothly to a minimum thickness of 0.010″ with a liquid vinyl coating material of the type described in § 160.055-3(j).
(3) Body strap. After the coating on the buoyant body of the life preserver is fully cured, a nylon webbing body strap shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-IA.
(4) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch, conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard 751, with nylon thread, and there shall be not less than 9 nor more than 11 stitches to the inch. Bar tacking with nylon thread is acceptable as noted on Dwg. No. 160-055-IA.
(c) Construction—standard, cloth covered life preserver. This device is constructed from three sections of unicellular plastic foam contained in a cloth envelope and has a neck hole, the body slit in the front, and a fitted and adjustable body strap.
(1) Buoyant material. The buoyant material of the life preserver shall be three sections of foam cut so as to have finished dimensions in accordance with the patterns shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB, Sheet 2, for adult size and Sheet 4, for child size. One or two layers of foam may be used to make up each section.
(2) Envelope. The envelope shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 3, for child size, and joined by seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. Alternate finished envelopes are permitted as noted on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB.
(3) Body strap. The body strap may be cotton or nylon webbing and shall be attached by stitching as shown on the Dwg. No. 160.055-IB, Sheet 1, for adult size and Sheet 3, for child size.
(4) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch if cotton thread is used, and not less than 9 nor more than 11 if nylon thread is used. Bar tacking is acceptable as noted on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB.
(d) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or service-ability.
§ 160.055-6 Construction—nonstandard, life preservers.
(a) General. The construction methods used for a nonstandard life preserver must be equivalent to the requirements in § 160.055-5 for a standard life preserver and also meet the requirements in this section.
(b) Size. Each nonstandard life preserver must contain the following volume of plastic foam buoyant material, determined by the displacement method:
(1) 700 cubic inches or more for an adult size;
(2) 350 cubic inches or more for a child size.
(c) Arrangement of buoyant materials. The buoyant material in nonstandard life preservers must:
(1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward position with head and face out of water;
(2) Have no tendency to turn the wearer face downward in the water; and
(3) Be arranged so that 68 to 73 percent of the total is located in the front of the life preserver.
(d) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard life preserver must be capable of being:
(1) Worn reversed;
(2) Adjusted to fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
(3) Donned in a time comparable to that of a standard life preserver.
§ 160.055-7 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
(a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector in accordance with this section and § 160.001-5.
(b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life preserver shall be determined according to § 160.001-5(f) of this part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
(c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.
§ 160.055-8 Marking.
Each life preserver must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(a) In letters three-fourths of an inch or more in height;
(1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
(b) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
§ 160.055-9 Procedure for approval—standard and nonstandard life preservers.
(a) General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, as explained in § 160.001-3 of this part.
(b) Assignment of inspector; standard life preservers. Upon receipt of an approval of a standard life preserver, a Coast Guard inspector is assigned to the factory to:
(1) Observe the production facilities and manufacturing methods;
(2) Select from a lot of 10 manufactured life preservers or more, three or more of each model for examination;
(3) Test the selected sample for compliance with the requirements of this subpart; and
(4) Forward to the Commandant a copy of his report of the tests and the production and manufacturing facilities, a specimen life preserver selected from those already manufactured but not tested, and one copy of an affidavit for each material used in the life preservers.
(b-1) Approval number—standard life preserver. An approval number is assigned to the manufacturer by the Coast Guard for a standard life preserver found to be in compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Assignment of inspector—nonstandard life preserver. Upon receipt of an application from a manufacturer for approval of nonstandard life preservers, an inspector is assigned to the factory to:
(1) Observe the production facilities and manufacturing methods;
(2) Select three samples of life preservers of each model for which approval is desired;
(3) Forward to the Commandant:
(i) Three samples of each model of life preserver;
(ii) A copy of the inspector’s report of tests and the production and manufacturing facilities; and
(iii) Four copies each of fully dimensioned, full-scale drawings showing all details of construction of the sample life preservers submitted, material affidavits, and four copies of a bill of materials showing all materials used in construction of the life preservers submitted by the manufacturer.
(c-1) Approval number—nonstandard life preserver. An official approval number is assigned to the manufacturer by the Coast Guard for a nonstandard life preserver approved after tests.
(d) Private brand labels. Private brand labels are those bearing the name and address of a distributor in lieu of the manufacturer. In order for a manufacturer to apply for an approval number to be used on such a private brand label, he shall forward a letter of request to the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the factory is located, setting forth the life preservers involved, together with a letter from his distributor also requesting that approval be issued. The manufacturer’s request for approval together with that of his distributor, will be forwarded to the Commandant, and when deemed advisable, an approval number or numbers will be issued in the name of the distributor. Approvals issued to a distributor under such an arrangement shall apply only to life preservers made by the manufacturer named on the certificate of approval, and this manufacturer shall be responsible for compliance of the life preservers with the requirements of this subpart.
Subpart 160.056—Rescue Boat
§ 160.056-1 General requirements.
(a) Rescue boats accepted and in use prior to the effective date of this subpart may be continued in service if in satisfactory condition.
(b) All rescue boats must be properly constructed, of such form as to be readily maneuverable, and be of the open rowboat type. They shall be suitable for use of three persons.
(c) Rescue boats shall be constructed of materials acceptable to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, having jurisdiction of construction.
§ 160.056-2 Construction.
(a) General. Rescue boats shall be square-sterned, of normal proportions, not less than 11 feet nor more than 14 feet in length. The length shall be the overall horizontal distance from bow to stern.
(b) Construction. The method of construction shall be such as is accepted as good engineering practice in the case of the specific material used. The hull shall be suitably stiffened to assure adequate strength.
(c) Weight. The weight of the rescue boat, fully equipped, shall not exceed 225 pounds.
(d) Seats. The rescue boat shall be fitted with three thwarts. The middle thwart shall be arranged as the rowing seat.
(e) Internal buoyancy. Buoyant material of suitable unicellular plastic foam shall be installed in the rescue boat. This material shall be protected from mechanical damage. It shall be distributed uniformly in the boat and such that at least one-quarter of the required volume is located at the sides of the boat. The minimum amount of buoyant material, in cubic feet, shall be determined by the following:
§ 160.056-3 Fittings and equipment.
(a) Fittings. (1) The rescue boat shall be fitted with one pair of rowlock sockets. Detachable rowlocks shall be permanently attached to the boat by chain or other suitable means.
(2) At least one eyebolt, ring, or other fitting suitable for attaching a painter shall be fitted to the bow and stern.
(b) Equipment. (1) The rescue boat shall be provided with one pair of oars of suitable size and material.
(2) A painter shall be attached to the bow and to the stern fittings. Each shall be of suitable material, at least
§ 160.056-4 Approval tests of prototype rescue boat.
(a) Drop test. The rescue boat, fully equipped, shall be dropped, in a free fall, from a ten-foot height into water. No damage which would render the rescue boat unserviceable shall result from this drop.
(b) Stability and freeboard test. The rescue boat shall have sufficient stability and freeboard so that the gunwale on the low side shall not be submerged with 350 pounds placed nine inches from the side in way of and about the level of the middle thwart.
(c) Rescue boarding test. With one man in the rowing position, a second kneeling on the stern thwart facing aft, and a third man balanced on the transom, the minimum freeboard of the transom shall be five inches. The men should average 165 pounds each. This test simulates the rescue of a person over the transom by a two-man boat crew.
(d) Rowing test. Three men, averaging 165 pounds each, shall be seated on the centerline of the boat, one on each thwart. One man, in the rowing position, using ordinary rowing technique, shall demonstrate the satisfactory course keeping and maneuvering characteristics of the boat in the ahead and astern directions.
§ 160.056-6 Name plate.
(a) Each rescue boat shall have permanently fitted at the transom a metal name plate, galvanically compatible with the hull material, and bearing information relating to the testing and approval of the prototype boat. Either raised or indented letters shall be used.
(b) The following information shall appear on the name plate:
§ 160.056-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) The manufacturer shall submit a request for approval to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, having jurisdiction of the place of manufacture of the rescue boat.
(b) Formal plans will not be required. However, a combined general arrangement and construction plan is required, which includes principal dimensions, and descriptive data of hull material, buoyant material, and equipment.
(c) When plans and data are satisfactory, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, will assign a marine inspector to conduct the tests required by § 160.056-4.
(d) Upon successful completion of the test, the inspector shall submit a written report to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection. A copy of this report, with plans and photographs, shall be forwarded to the Commandant for record purposes. The date of approval and the marine inspector’s initials shall be indicated in this report.
(e) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, shall issue a letter to the manufacturer indicating that approval of the rescue boat has been granted, and will include any conditions imposed. A copy of this approval letter shall be forwarded to the District Commander and to the Commandant.
(f) If a rescue boat is required on short notice, a boat may be approved on an individual basis: Provided, That the requirements in this subpart are met to the satisfaction of the Officer in Charge Marine Inspection. Sketches of the boat showing alterations may be submitted in lieu of the manufacturer’s general arrangement and construction plan. Under these circumstances, the letter indicating that approval of the rescue boat has been granted shall be issued to the vessel using the boat.
Subpart 160.057—Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (15 Minutes)
§ 160.057-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
(1) “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
(2) “Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,” National Bureau of Standards Report 4792, July 1956.
(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
(c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
(d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal Register library.
§ 160.057-2 Type.
(a) Floating orange. smoke distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of an outer container, ballast, an air chamber, an inner container, the smoke producing composition, and an igniter mechanism. Alternate arrangements which conform to the performance requirements of this specification will be given special consideration.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.057-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance requirements.
(a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. Metal for containers shall be not less than 0.5 mm (0.020 in.) in thickness. Other dimensions or materials may be considered upon special request when presented with supporting data. Igniter systems shall be of corrosion-resistant metal. The combustible material shall be of such nature that it will not deteriorate during long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, or both.
(b) Workmanship. Floating orange smoke distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.
(c) Construction. The outer container shall be cylindrical and of a size suitable for intended use. All sheet metal seams should be hook jointed and soldered. The whole container shall be covered with two coats of waterproof paint or other equivalent protection system. The igniter mechanism shall operate and provide ignition of the signal automatically when the ring life buoy to which it is attached is thrown overboard.
(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test requirements contained in § 160.057-4.
§ 160.057-4 Approval and production tests.
(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 20 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under § 160.057-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter.
(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in § 159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.
(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 1,200 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with: (i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources of raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.
(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under § 159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:
(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.057-4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 160.057-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected.
(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:
(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistance. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
(ii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to the directions printed on the signal and place signal in tub or barrel of water. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained smoke emission until it ceases. There shall be no flame emission during the entire smoke emitting time of the signal. The smoke emitting time for a specimen shall not be less than 15 minutes. When the tests are performed or supervised by an independent laboratory, this test shall be conducted with approximately 6 mm (
(iii) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. Test specimens shall emit smoke at a uniform rate while floating in calm to rough water. Signals should be so constructed that water submerging the signal in moderately heavy seas will not cause it to become inoperable.
Table 160.057-4(
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumula- tive sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 or | 2 | First | 2 | ( 2 ) | 200 |
| less. | Second | 4 | ( 2 ) | 200 | |
| Third | 6 | 0 | 200 | ||
| Fourth | 8 | 0 | 300 | ||
| Fifth | 10 | 100 | 300 | ||
| Sixth | 12 | 100 | 300 | ||
| Seventh | 14 | 299 | 300 | ||
| 151 to | 3 | First | 3 | ( 2 ) | 200 |
| 500. | Second | 6 | 0 | 300 | |
| Third | 9 | 0 | 300 | ||
| Fourth | 12 | 100 | 400 | ||
| Fifth | 15 | 200 | 400 | ||
| Sixth | 18 | 300 | 500 | ||
| Seventh | 21 | 499 | 500 | ||
| More | 5 | First | 5 | ( 2 ) | 300 |
| than | Second | 10 | 0 | 300 | |
| 501. | Third | 15 | 100 | 400 | |
| Fourth | 20 | 200 | 500 | ||
| Fifth | 25 | 300 | 600 | ||
| Sixth | 30 | 400 | 600 | ||
| Seventh | 35 | 699 | 700 |
1 Cumulative failure percent.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
Table 160.057-4(
| Kind of defects | Percentage of failures |
|---|---|
| a. Failure to ignite | 100 |
| b. Ignites or burns dangerously | 100 |
| c. Nonuniform smoke emitting rate | 50 |
| d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 percent of specified time | 100 |
| e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 percent but less than 80 percent of specified time | 75 |
| f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 percent but less than 90 percent of specified time | 50 |
| g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 percent but less than 100 percent of specified time | 25 |
(d) Technical tests. One signal must be subjected to each of the following tests. Each signal must pass the test in order for the lot of signals to be accepted.
(1) Drop test. One signal must be attached to a ring life buoy and arranged to be ignited by the dropping buoy in the same manner as it would be when used on a vessel. The signal and buoy must be mounted at least 27 m (90 ft.) above the surface of a body of water. The buoy is released and must cause the signal to ignite and fall to the water with the buoy. The signal must remain afloat and emit smoke at least 15 minutes.
(2) Wave test. A signal shall be tested in a manner simulating its use at sea. The signal shall be ignited and thrown overboard under conditions where waves are at least 30 cm (1 ft.) high. The smoke emitting time must be for the full 15 minutes and the signal shall float in such a manner that it shall function properly during this test. The signal shall be attached to a ring life buoy in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
(3) Underwater smoke emission. Condition the signal in accordance with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until smoke emission ceases. The test specimen shall emit smoke under water not less than 30 seconds when subjected to this test.
(4) Elevated Temperature, Humidity and Storage. Place specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove specimen and store at room temperature (20° to 25 °C.) with approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate satisfactorily following this conditioning.
(5) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 °C. with not more than 10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal must not ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
(6) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not explode or ignite.
(7) Corrosion resistance. Expose the complete specimen with cover secured hand-tight to a finely divided spray of 20 percent by weight sodium chloride solution at a temperature between 32 °C and 38 °C (90 °F and 100 °F) for 100 hours. The container and cap must not be corroded in any fashion that would impair their proper functioning.
(8) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the smoke must be orange as defined by sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary” (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
(9) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less than 70 percent transmission for not less than 12 minutes when measured with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7
§ 160.057-5 Marking.
(a) Directions for use. Each floating orange smoke distress signal shall be plainly and indelibly marked in black lettering not less than 3 mm (
(b) Other markings. (1) There shall be embossed or die-stamped, in the outer container in figures not less than 5 mm (
(2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing carton or box containing floating orange smoke distress signals, such cartons or boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the service life expiration date, the month and year of manufacture, and the lot number.
(3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
(c) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
§ 160.057-7 Procedure for approval.
(a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.058—Desalter Kits, Sea Water, for Merchant Vessels
§ 160.058-1 Applicable specification.
(a) Specification. The following specification, of the issue in effect on the date the desalter kits are manufactured, forms a part of this subpart:
(1) Military specification. MIL-D-5531D—Desalter Kit, Sea Water, Mark 2.
(2) [Reserved]
(b) Copies on file. A copy of the specification referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Military Specification may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.058-2 Type.
(a) Desalter kits specified by this subpart shall be of the type described in the specification listed in § 160.058-1(a)(1).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.058-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance requirements.
(a) The materials, construction, workmanship, general and detail requirements shall conform to the requirements of the specification listed in § 160.058-1(a)(1), except as otherwise specifically provided by this subpart.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.058-4 Inspections.
(a) Desalter kits specified by this subpart are not inspected at regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the desalter kits are manufactured may detail a marine inspector at any time to visit places where desalter kits are manufactured to check materials and construction methods and to satisfy himself that the desalter kits are being manufactured in compliance with the requirements of the specification listed in § 160.058-1(a)(1) as modified by this specification and are suitable for the intended purpose. The manufacturer shall admit the marine inspector to his plant and shall provide a suitable place and the necessary apparatus for the use of the marine inspector in conducting tests at the place of manufacture.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.058-5 Labeling and marking.
(a) In addition to the marking and instructions required by the specification listed in § 160.058-1(a)(1), the Coast Guard approval number shall be included. The contract number may be omitted.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.060—Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular Polyethylene Foam, Adult and Child
§ 160.060-1 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) [Reserved]
(2) Military Specification:
(3) Federal Standards:
(4) Coast Guard Specification:
(b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date buoyant vests are manufacture, form a part of this subpart:
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer together with the Certificate of Approval.
(1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained upon request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509 or a recognized laboratory listed in § 160.060-8b.
(2) The Federal Specifications and Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
(3) The Military Specification may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
§ 160.060-2 Type and model.
Each buoyant vest specified in this subpart is a:
(a) Standard:
(1) Model AY, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
(2) Model CYM, child, medium (for children weighing from 50 to 90 pounds); or
(3) Model CYS, child, small (for children weighing less than 50 pounds); or
(b) Nonstandard:
(1) Model,
(2) Model,
(3) Model,
§ 160.060-3 Materials—standard vests.
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished product.
(b) Unicellular polyethylene foam. The unicellular polyethylene foam shall be all new material complying with specification subpart 164.013 of this subchapter.
(c) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made from 39″, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of approximately 96 × 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 ounces per square yard, shall have thread count of not less than 94 × 60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
(d) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap loops for both adult and child sizes must be
(d-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly including hardware, must have a minimum breaking strength of 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the webbing are as follows:
(1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch.
(2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-quarter inch and meet military specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIa webbing.
(e) [Reserved]
(f) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
§ 160.060-3a Materials—Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
(a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
(1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion resistant materials includes, but is not limited to, brass, bronze, and stainless steel.
(2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with the webbing which will pass through the opening.
(b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must—
(1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which one or more of the following tests will be used:
(i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a temperature of 95 °F (35 °C) for a period of 240 hours in accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal Test Method Standard No. 151.
(ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weatherometer for a period of 100 hours.
(iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the following:
(a) Leaded gasoline.
(b) Gum turpentine.
(iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0° ±5 °F (17.6 ±2.775 °C) for 24 hours; and
(2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child size for 10 minutes at ambient temperatures without breaking or distorting.
§ 160.060-4 Materials—nonstandard vests.
(a) General. All materials used in nonstandard buoyant vests must be equivalent to those specified in § 160.060-3 and be obtained from a supplier who furnishes an affidavit in accordance with the requirements in § 160.060-3(a).
(b) Reinforcing tape. When used, the reinforcing tape around the neck shall be
§ 160.060-5 Construction—standard vests.
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which essentially consist of a fabric envelope in which are enclosed inserts of buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an upright or slightly backward position with head and face out of water. The buoyant vests are also fitted with straps and hardware to provide for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit to the bodies of various size wearers.
(b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be made of three pieces. Two pieces of fabric shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.060-1, Sheet 1 for the adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 for child sizes, and joined together with a third piece which forms a 2
(c) Buoyant inserts. The unicellular plastic foam buoyant inserts shall be cut and formed as shown on Dwg. No. 160.060-1, Sheets 4, 5, and 6 for the adult, child medium, and child small sizes, respectively.
(d) Tie tapes, body straps, and hardware. The tie tapes, body straps, and hardware shall be arranged as shown on the drawings and attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching indicated.
(e) Stitching. All stitching shall be short lock stitch conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
(f) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.060-6 Construction—nonstandard vests.
(a) General. The construction methods used for a nonstandard buoyant vest must be equivalent to the requirements in § 160.060-5 for standard vests and also meet the requirements specified in this section.
(b) Sizes. Each nonstandard vest must contain the following volume of unicellular polyethylene foam buoyant material, determined by the displacement method:
(1) Five hundred cubic inches or more for the adult size, for persons weighing over 90 pounds.
(2) Three hundred and fifty cubic inches or more for a child medium size, for children weighing from 50 to 90 pounds.
(3) Two hundred and twenty-five cubic inches or more for children weighing less than 50 pounds.
(c) Arrangement of buoyant material. The buoyant material in a nonstandard vest must:
(1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward position with head and face out of water;
(2) Have no tendency to turn the wearer face downward in the water; and
(3) Be arranged so that 70 to 75 percent of the total is located in the front of the vest.
(d) Neck opening. Each cloth covered nonstandard vest must have at the neck opening:
(1) A gusset; or
(2) Reinforcing tape.
(e) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard vest must be made with adjustments to:
(1) Fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
(2) Facilitate donning time for an uninitiated person.
§ 160.060-7 Inspections and tests—standard and nonstandard vests.
1
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests shall—
(1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the manufacturing methods, and the finished product to meet the applicable requirements of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced;
(2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and the Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the device, including affidavits by suppliers; and
(3) Permit any examination, inspection and test required by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a produced listed and labeled device, either at the place of manufacture or some other location.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of 500 buoyant vests or fewer;
(2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed;
(3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection;
(4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the requirements in Table 160.060-7(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.060-7(
| Lot size | Number of vests in sample |
|---|---|
| 100 and under | 1 |
| 101 to 200 | 2 |
| 201 to 300 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 4 |
(5) If a sample vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the next succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(c) Additional compliance tests. An inspector from the recognized laboratory or Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test and inspection of a buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer or through commercial channels to determine the suitability of the device for listing and labeling, or to determine its conformance to applicable requirements.
(d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to—
(1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that is included in the construction of the device; and
(2) Conduct any examination, inspection, or test in a suitable place and with appropriate apparatus provided by the manufacturer.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts from the vests. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the inserts, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the inserts have once been submerged they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section minus paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section.
(2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from adult size buoyant vests shall provide not less than 15
(f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly, including hardware shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full length. A weight as specified in § 160.060-3(d) shall be attached to the other end on the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.
(g) Additional approval tests for nonstandard vests. Tests in addition to those required by this section may be conducted by the inspector for a nonstandard vest to determine performance equivalence to a standard vest. Such additional tests may include determining performance in water, suitability of materials, donning time, ease of adjustment, and similar equivalency tests. Costs for any additional tests must be assumed by the manufacturer.
§ 160.060-8 Marking.
(a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(b) Waterproof marking. Marking of buoyant vests shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without printed matter becoming illegible.
§ 160.060-9 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.061 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.062—Releases. Lifesaving Equipment, Hydraulic and Manual
§ 160.062-1 Applicable specifications, and referenced material.
(a) Specifications and standards. The following specifications of the issue in effect on the date releases are manufactured or reconditioned shall form a part of the regulations of this subpart (see §§ 2.75-17 through 2.75-19 of subchapter A (Procedures Applicable to the Public) of this chapter):
(1) Military Specifications and Standards:
(2) Federal Test Method Standards:
(b) Technical references. For guidance purposes the technical reference may be used, which is entitled “Corrosion Handbook,” 1948, by H. H. Uhlig, and published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 605 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10016, and priced at $21 per copy.
(c) Copies on file. A copy of the specifications and standards listed in paragraph (a) of this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans, specifications and certificate of approval. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to have the latest issue, including addenda and changes, of these specifications and standards on hand when manufacturing or reconditioning equipment under this specification subpart.
(1) The military specifications and standards may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(2) The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; telephone 703-605-5400.
§ 160.062-2 Types.
(a) The hydraulic releases referred to under § 160.062-1(a)(1) are of the diaphram-spring plunger type, which releases a buoyant load under hydrostatic pressure.
(b) All hydraulic releases given an approval under this subpart shall be designed and tested to operate with spring-tensioned gripes. Such gripes shall be considered as a part of each approval.
(c) Alternate designs will be given special consideration, but the expense of their preliminary investigation at a laboratory accepted by the Commandant shall be borne by the manufacturer.
§ 160.062-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance requirements.
(a) General. The materials, construction, workmanship, and performance requirements shall conform to the requirements of the specifications listed in § 160.062-1(a)(1) except as otherwise provided by this subpart. In addition, all metals and materials used in a hydraulic release must be compatible with each other so that the final assembly under conditions of use is not subject to such deleterious effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing, or buckling of moving parts, or loosening and tightening of joints due to differences in coefficients of thermal expansion. Galvanizing or other forms of metallic coating on the parts of a hydraulic release are not acceptable. The criteria for accepting any combination of materials shall be determined by testing or by the data stated in § 160.062-1(b).
(b) Buoyant load capacity. A hydraulic release working in conjunction with its spring-tensioned gripe must demonstrate that it can release buoyant loads between the limits of 200 pounds and 3,750 pounds and within the range of depths specified by paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Release depth. A hydraulic release shall automatically release the buoyant loads described in paragraph (b) of this section at depths between 5 feet to 15 feet prior to being tested for either the temperature or the corrosion resistance tests of 160.062-4(c)(2). After exposure to these temperature and corrosion tests, a hydraulic release shall release the buoyant loads of paragraph (b) of this section between the depths of 5 feet to 25 feet.
§ 160.062-4 Inspections and tests.
(a) General. Marine inspectors shall be assigned to make factory inspections of hydraulic releases, as described in paragraph (d) of this section for sampling and testing. In addition, the Commander of the Coast Guard District may detail a marine inspector at any time to visit any place where approved hydraulic releases are manufactured or reconditioned to observe production methods and to conduct any inspections or tests which may be deemed advisable. The marine inspector shall be admitted to any place in the factory or place where work is done on hydraulic releases or their components. In addition, the marine inspector may take samples of assembled hydraulic releases or parts or materials used in their construction for further examination, inspection, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are conducted at the place of manufacture by the marine inspector.
(b) Classification of tests. The sampling, inspections, and tests conducted upon hydraulic releases shall fall within one of the following general classifications, as described hereafter:
(1) Preapproval tests.
(2) Factory inspections and tests.
(3) Spot check tests.
(4) Periodic servicing tests.
(c) Preapproval testing. The “Visual and dimensional examination” referred to in Table 160.062-4(c) shall be conducted by a marine inspector at the factory. The “Physical and operational tests” of that table shall be conducted at a laboratory accepted by the Commandant.
Table 160.062-4(
1
| Number of specimens | Name of tests | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Visual and dimensional examination | Para. 4.2.1, 4.2.2, and 4.3 of MIL-R-15041C. |
| 4 | Physical and operational tests | Para. 4.2.1, 4.2.3, and 4.4 of MIL-R-15041C. |
1 These tests are called “Lot acceptance tests,” in Military Specification MIL-R-15041C.
(1) Visual and dimensional examination. The marine inspector shall examine the 4 hydraulic release samples of the preapproval sample for their visual and dimensional characteristics. If all 4 of the devices are in agreement with the manufacturer’s plans previously reviewed by the Commandant, the 4 devices will be accepted and are to be assembled for further testing under the “Physical and operational tests” of paragraph (c)(2) of this section.
(2) Physical and operational tests. Each hydraulic release selected under Table 160.062-4(c) for the “Physical and operational tests” shall undergo each of the tests described in this paragraph without renewal of parts or repairs between the tests. The tests shall be conducted in the following sequence:
(i) Submergence test. A hydraulic release shall be tested by applying buoyant loads of its designed capacity to its spring-tensioned gripe as required under § 160.062-3(b) while the device is submerged in water or in a water-filled pressure testing tank. A hydraulic release shall show by its submergence test that it meets the buoyant capacity and release depth requirements of § 160.062-3 (b) and (c) by automatically tripping and releasing its load.
(ii) Temperature test. After its submergence test, a hydraulic release sample shall be placed in a cold box at minus 30 degrees F. for 4 hours. Upon completion of this conditioning, the sample device shall be opened for inspection and shall show no significant change in the position of the hydraulic or manual control as a result of the low temperature exposure.
(iii) Corrosion resisting test. After the completion of its temperature test, a hydraulic release sample shall be exposed to a 20 percent salt spray test for 160 continuous hours in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 151. At the conclusion of this test, the sample device shall be entirely serviceable and shall show a minimal amount of corrosion.
(iv) Second temperature test. After its corrosion resisting test, a hydraulic release sample shall undergo a repeat of the temperature test, subdivision (ii) of this paragraph.
(v) Second submergence test. The final test of a hydraulic release sample shall be a repeat of the submergence test, paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section.
(d) Factory inspections and tests. For purposes of sampling, a lot shall consist of not more than 500 hydraulic releases of the same model. Manufacturers of approved hydraulic releases shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods, workmanship, and the finished product as to produce hydraulic releases in conformity with the approvals previously issued by the Commandant.
(1) Visual and dimensional examination. A random sample of hydraulic releases shall be selected by a marine inspector at the factory in accordance with Table 160.062-4(d)(1) from each assembled lot. After the samples have been selected, they will undergo an examination of visual and dimensional characteristics by referring to their approved drawings with their acceptance based on Table 160.062-4(d)(1) and MIL-STD-105, and checking for compliance with specific details as described therein.
Table 160.062-4(
1
| Number of release devices in inspection lot | Number of release devices in sample | Rejection number (defectives) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 and under | All | |
| 16 to 25 | 15 | 1 |
| 26 to 40 | 25 | 1 |
| 41 to 110 | 35 | 2 |
| 111 to 180 | 50 | 2 |
| 181 to 300 | 75 | 3 |
| 301 to 500 | 110 | 2 |
1 This table is derived from Table I of Paragraph 4.2.2 of Military Specification MIL-R-15041C.
(2) Physical and operational tests. If the sampling and examination of paragraph (d)(1) of this section are satisfactory, the marine inspector shall select an additional random sample of hydraulic releases from the same assembled lot as described above. This second group of samples, of a number determined by Table 160.062-4(d)(2), shall be forwarded for testing at the manufacturer’s expense to a laboratory accepted by the Commandant. Each hydraulic release shall undergo each of the tests described in this paragraph without renewal of parts or repairs between tests. The tests shall be conducted in the following sequence:
(i) Submergence test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section.
(ii) Temperature test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section.
(iii) Corrosion resisting test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(iii) of this section.
(iv) Second temperature test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(iv) of this section.
(v) Second submergence test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(v) of this section.
Table 160.062-4(
1
| Number of release devices in inspection lot | Number release devices in sample | Rejection number (failures in the tests) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 and under | 4 | 1 |
| 16 to 25 | 5 | 1 |
| 26 to 40 | 7 | 1 |
| 41 to 110 | 10 | 1 |
| 111 to 180 | 12 | 1 |
| 181 to 300 | 16 | 1 |
| 301 to 500 | 20 | 1 |
1 This table is derived from Table II of Paragraph 4.2.3 of Military Specification MIL-R-15041C.
(3) Lot acceptance at a factory. The submergence test of paragraph (c)(2)(i) shall be performed on each of the remaining hydraulic releases in a production lot after the selection of the lot samples required by paragraph (d)(2) of this section. Such individual submergence tests may be performed at the factory in a pressure tank apparatus which simulates the hydrostatic pressure and the various tension loads on the hydraulic release. Those hydraulic releases which do not pass this submergence test shall be removed from the production lot as unacceptable, but may be reworked and included in a subsequent lot. After the completion of these individual submergence tests and after receipt of the laboratory’s test report showing that the tests on the lot samples were satisfactorily met, the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the factory is located shall have the manufacturer notified that this production lot of hydraulic releases meets the requirements of this specification subpart. After being marked as required by § 160.062-5, the manufacturer may sell such hydraulic releases as approved equipment.
(i) Hydraulic releases which have been rejected may not, unless subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale under representation as being in compliance with this specification or as being approved for use on vessels subject to inspection under this chapter.
(4) Records and test reports. The manufacturer shall maintain records and copies of test reports for each production lot of hydraulic releases manufactured for a period of five (5) years from the date notified that a production lot meets the requirements in this subpart. These records and test reports, upon request, shall be made available to the marine inspector. The manufacturer will be provided with a copy of the laboratory’s test report concerning each production lot of hydraulic releases submitted for testing.
(e) Spot checks. As one of the conditions in granting an approval for a hydraulic release under this subpart, the Coast Guard reserves the right to spot check at any time and at any place the product, parts, and complete assemblies of hydraulic releases covered by the approval. The spot check shall be by a marine inspector who shall be admitted to the place or places where work may be performed before, during, or after the manufacture of hydraulic releases or at any place where hydraulic releases may be assembled, reworked, repaired, or reconditioned by the manufacturer of any repair facility accepted by the Commandant in accordance with the procedure contained in § 160.062-7. A spot check includes having a marine inspector compare materials, parts, and workmanship and/or complete hydraulic releases with the manufacturer’s approved plans, records and test reports to ascertain compliance with these requirements. The marine inspector may select samples of materials or parts used in the construction of hydraulic releases and complete hydraulic releases and may order or have performed any or all of the tests described in this section conducted on such devices or parts thereof. This work and any tests required shall be borne by the manufacturer without cost to the Coast Guard.
(f) Periodic Servicing and Testing. A hydraulic release is inspected as follows:
(1) Inspection for devices not installed after manufacture. A hydraulic release, that is not installed after manufacture and is stored for period of 24 months or less, is not required to be inspected or tested before installation but must be stamped by a marine inspector on the inspection tag required in § 160.062-5(b)(2) with—
(i) The word “Installed”;
(ii) The installation date; and
(iii) The Marine Inspection Office identification letters.
(2) Inspection for devices that have been installed. A hydraulic release that is installed for a period of 12 months or more must pass the test contained in paragraph (f)(3) of this section and be marked as required in paragraph (f)(5) of this section. If, after passing the test, the device is stored for a period of 24 months or less, it must be stamped as required in paragraph (f)(1) of this paragraph by the marine inspector before reinstallation.
(3) Devices stored longer than 24 months. A hydraulic release that is stored for a period of more than 24 months must be inspected and tested by an employee of a repair or test facility, accepted in accordance with the requirement contained in § 160.062-7 or § 160.062-8, as follows:
(i) The device must be manually operated to determine if it releases.
(ii) If the device releases, it must pass the submergence test contained in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section, at a depth between 5 feet and 15 feet and be marked as required in paragraph (f)(5) of this section.
(iii) If the device fails to release or fails to pass the submergence test required in paragraph (f)(3)(ii) of this section, the device must be disassembled, repaired, and tested in accordance with the requirements contained in paragraph (f)(4) of this paragraph.
(4) Disassembly and repair tests. If a hydraulic release fails the test contained in paragraph (f)(3)(iii) of this section, it must be disassembled and repaired by the manufacturer or a repair facility accepted in accord with the requirements contained in § 160.062-7 and be tested as follows:
(i) A production lot must be formed consisting of 12 or more but not exceeding 100 devices.
(ii) In the presence of a marine inspector, the device must pass the submergence test contained in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section at a depth between 5 feet and 15 feet.
(iii) Any device that fails must be—
(A) Repaired;
(B) Placed in a subsequent lot; and
(C) Submitted to the submergence test contained in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section at a depth between 5 feet and 15 feet.
(5) Marking of devices. If a hydraulic release passes the submergence test required in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section at a depth between 5 feet and 15 feet the marine inspector stamps the inspection tag with—
(i) The test date;
(ii) The Marine Inspection Office identification letters; and
(iii) The letters “USCG”.
§ 160.062-5 Markings.
(a) Hydraulic releases manufactured prior to the granting of a certificate of approval to the manufacturer may be permitted in service only to July 1, 1969. However, such hydraulic releases meeting the type and design requirements covered by a current certificate of approval may be repaired and/or reconditioned as provided in § 160.062-4(f) and be accepted as approved equipment when it bears the following markings:
(1) Body marking. The name of the manufacturer and the model designation are plainly visible.
(2) Inspection tag markings. Each hydraulic release repaired or reconditioned shall be provided with a 2″ by 3
(b) Hydraulic release manufactured under a certificate of approval issued under this subpart shall be provided with 2 sets of markings as follows:
(1) Body marking. The metal body of a hydraulic release shall be stamped in block characters not less than
(2) Inspection tag markings. Each hydraulic release shall be provided at its time of manufacture with a 2″ by 3
§ 160.062-6 Procedure for approval.
General. Hydraulic releases for use on lifesaving equipment for merchant vessels are approved only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. In order to be approved, the hydraulic releases must be tested in accordance with § 160.062-4(c) by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 159.010. The independent laboratory will forward the report to the Commandant for examination, and if satisfactory an official approval number will be assigned to the manufacturer for the model hydraulic release submitted.
§ 160.062-7 Procedures for acceptance of repair facility.
(a) Before a repair facility is accepted by the Commandant to perform the services required in § 160.062-4(f), it must be inspected by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, to determine if it has—
(1) The testing apparatus to perform all the tests required in § 160.062-4;
(2) A source of supply of replacement parts for a hydraulic release, evidenced by a signed agreement between the facility and his source of supply, or the parts for it; all replacement parts must be in compliance with applicable specifications and standards contained in § 160.062-1; and
(3) Employees competent to perform the services required in this paragraph. Each employee who is engaged in serving a hydraulic release must demonstrate his competence to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection by—
(i) Disassembling a hydraulic release;
(ii) Making all necessary repairs to the disassembled unit;
(iii) Reassembling the unit in conformance with the specifications and standards contained in § 160.062-1(a); and
(iv) Showing that the reassembled unit meets the buoyant capacity and release depth requirements contained in § 160.062-3 (b) and (c) after being inspected and tested in conformance with the requirements contained in § 160.062-4(f).
(b) Based on the report of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, regarding the inspection required in paragraph (a) of this section, the Commandant notifies the facility that—
(1) It is an accepted repair facility for the reconditioning and testing of hydraulic releases; or
(2) It is not accepted as a repair facility, lists each discrepancy noted by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, and describes the procedure for reinspection if applicable corrections are made.
§ 160.062-8 Procedures for acceptance of testing facility.
(a) The Commandant may consider the acceptance of a facility that conducts only the submergence test contained in § 160.062-4(c)(2)(i). Before a facility is accepted by the Commandant to conduct this test, it must be inspected by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, to determine if it has—
(1) The testing apparatus to perform the test required in § 160.062-4(c)(2)(i); and
(2) Employees competent to perform the test required in § 160.062-4(c)(2)(i). Each employee who is engaged in testing a device must demonstrate his competence to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection by conducting a submergence test.
(b) Based on the report of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, regarding the inspection required in paragraph (a) of this section, the Commandant notifies each applicant, in accordance with the procedures described in § 160.062-7(b), whether or not it is an accepted testing facility.
Subpart 160.064—Marine Buoyant Devices
§ 160.064-1 Applicable specifications.
(a) Specifications. There are no other Coast Guard specifications applicable to this subpart.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.064-2 Types and models.
(a) Types. Water safety buoyant devices covered by this subpart shall be of two general types, viz, those intended to be worn on the body and those intended to be thrown.
(b) Models. Water safety buoyant devices may be of different models which incorporate characteristics considered valuable for safety in various fields of water sports or boating activities.
(c) Sizes. Water safety buoyant devices designed to be worn shall be of sizes suitable for adults or children, as intended and marked on the device. Water safety buoyant devices intended to be thrown in water shall be of a minimum size intended for adults.
(d) Dimensions. A foam cushion designed to be thrown must be 2 inches or more in thickness and must have 225 or more square inches of top surface area.
§ 160.064-3 Requirements.
1
(a) General. Every water safety buoyant device shall conform to the requirements as accepted by the Commandant for listing and labeling by a recognized laboratory, and shall be of such design, materials, and construction as to meet the requirements specified in this section.
(b) Designs and constructions. Water safety buoyant devices shall be of designs suitable for the purposes intended. A design intended to be worn on the body shall be capable of being adjusted and secured to fit the range of wearers for which designed with as few fastenings or adjustments as are consistent with the purpose of the device. Designs may be varied, but shall not provide means intended for fastening or securing the device to a boat. The arrangement of the buoyancy of devices intended to be worn on the body shall provide for flotation of the wearer in an upright, slightly backward position in the water to as great a degree as is consistent with the special purpose intended, and in no case shall the device have a tendency to turn the wearer face downward in the water. Devices intended to be thrown shall not provide means for adjustment or close fitting to the body. Methods of construction shall provide strengths, with reinforcements where necessary, to be adequate for the intended use and purpose of the device.
(c) Materials. All materials used in any device covered by this subpart must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter and shall be all new materials and shall be suitable for the purpose intended and shall be at least equivalent to corresponding materials specified for standard buoyant vests or buoyant cushions. Hardware or fastenings shall be of sufficient strength for the purpose of the device and shall be of inherently corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, certain plastics, etc. Decorative platings of any thickness are permissible. Fabrics, coated fabrics, tapes, and webbing shall be selected with a view to the purposes of the device and shall be either mildew resistant or treated for mildew resistance. Buoyancy shall be provided by inherently buoyant material and shall not be dependent upon loose, granulated material, gas compartments or inflation. So long as the minimum required buoyancy is provided by inherently buoyant material, the use of supplementary gas compartments, or inflation, will be permitted to supply additional buoyancy.
(d) Buoyancy. (1) Buoyancy for devices to be worn is as follows:
(i) Devices for persons weighing more than 90 pounds must have 15
(ii) Devices for persons weighing 50 to 90 pounds must have 11 pounds or more of buoyancy.
(iii) Devices for persons weighing less than 50 pounds must have 7 pounds or more of buoyancy.
(2) Buoyancy for devices to be thrown is as follows:
(i) Ring life buoys must have 16
(ii) Foam cushions must have 18 pounds or more of buoyancy.
(iii) A device other than those specified in paragraph (d)(2) (i) or (ii) of this section must have 20 pounds or more of buoyancy.
(3) The buoyancy values required in paragraphs (d) (1) and (2) of this section must be as follows:
(i) For each device containing foam buoyant materials, the required buoyancy value must remain after the device has been submerged in fresh water for 24 or more continuous hours.
(ii) For each device containing kapok, the required buoyancy value must remain after the device has been submerged in fresh water for 48 or more continuous hours.
(e) Workmanship. Water safety buoyant devices covered by this subpart shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.
§ 160.064-4 Marking.
(a) Labels. Each water safety buoyant device must be marked in accordance with the recognized laboratory’s listing and labeling requirements in accordance with § 160.064-3(a). At a minimum, all labels must include—
(1) Size information, as appropriate;
(2) The Coast Guard approval number;
(3) Manufacturer’s contact information;
(4) Model name/number;
(5) Lot number, manufacturer date; and
(6) Any limitations or restrictions on approval or special instructions for use.
(b) Durability of marking. Marking must be of a type which will be durable and legible for the expected life of the device.
§ 160.064-6 Examinations, tests and inspections.
(a) Manufacturer’s inspection and tests. Manufacturers of listed and labeled water safety buoyant devices shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or to the Coast Guard marine inspector, or both, for review upon request.
(b) Laboratory inspections and tests. Such examinations, inspections and tests as are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
(c) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard marine inspector assigned by the Commander of the District in which the factory is located, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into construction or final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
(d) Additional tests, etc. Unannounced examinations, tests, and inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted by the recognized laboratory or the United States Coast Guard.
§ 160.064-7 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
Subpart 160.066—Distress Signal for Boats, Red Aerial Pyrotechnic Flare
§ 160.066-1 Type.
(a) Red aerial pyrotechnic distress signals specified by this subpart must be either self-contained or pistol launched, and either meteor or parachute assisted type.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.066-5 Design, construction, and manufacturing requirements.
(a) Each signal must be either:
(1) A self-contained unit with all necessary components for firing the signal, or
(2) A cartridge intended for firing from a signal pistol that is approved under Subpart 160.028 of this chapter.
(b) Each signal unit must have an interior chamber which contains the main propulsion charge and which is constructed so that it is capable of withstanding the forces generated by ignition without rupture, crack, or deformation of any kind.
(c) Signals must be constructed in lots numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started when:
(1) Any change in construction details occurs;
(2) Any change in sources of raw materials occurs;
(3) Production is started on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line; or
(4) A lot exceeds 30,000 units.
§ 160.066-7 Performance requirements.
(a) Each signal must:
(1) Burn “vivid red” when tested as specified in § 160.021-4(d)(7) for at least 5.5 seconds.
(2) Have a peak luminous intensity of at least 10,000 candela.
(3) Burn a total of not less than 1,000 candleminutes (Cm) using the formula
(4) Burn out completely before falling back to the level of launch.
(5) Function in a manner that would not cause burns or injury to an unprotected person firing the signal in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
(6) Not malfunction in a manner that would cause burns or injury to an unprotected person firing the signal in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
(b) Each signal must meet the requirements of paragraph (a) after:
(1) Submersion in water for 24 hours, or
(2) If protected by a sealed container, submersion in water for 24 hours inside the sealed container immediately followed by submersion for 10 minutes without the container, and
(3) Being exposed to the Elevated Temperature, Humidity, and Storage Test in § 160.066-13(b).
(c) Testing for burn time and luminous intensity pursuant to paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2), respectively, shall be conducted in conformity with the following requirements and procedures:
(1) The chart speed of the light measuring equipment shall not be slower than 5 seconds per inch;
(2) The chart sweep of the light measuring equipment shall not be slower than .5 seconds for full scale;
(3) The first and last seconds of the burn shall be eliminated in measuring luminous intensity;
(4) The time during which the candle burns (excluding first and last seconds of burn) is to be used to determine the luminous intensity by averaging the readings taken during the burning; and
(5) Burn time is to be measured from first light of the signal to dark.
§ 160.066-9 Labeling.
(a) Each signal must be legibly and indelibly marked with the following information:
(1) The manufacturer’s name,
(2) The designed burning time of the pyrotechnic candle(s),
(3) The specific signal pistol for which the signal is designed, if any,
(4) The lot number,
(5) The Coast Guard approval number,
(6) Operation and storage instructions,
(7) The month and year of expiration determined by § 160.066-10, and
(8) The words:
“Aerial Flare. Acceptable as a Day and Night Visual Distress Signal for boats as required by 33 CFR 175.110. For Emergency Use Only”.
(b) If the signal is too small to contain all of the information required by paragraph (a) and any labeling which may be required by paragraph (d), the information required by paragraphs (a) (2), (6), and (8) may be printed on a separate piece of paper packed with each signal or with the smallest container in which several signals are packed.
(c) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: “Keep under cover in a dry place.”
(d) Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the label requirements of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, 15 U.S.C. 1263.
§ 160.066-10 Expiration date.
Each approved signal must have an expiration date marked on it. That date must not be more than forty-two months from date of manufacture.
§ 160.066-11 Approval procedures.
(a) Red aerial pyrotechnic flare distress signals are approved under the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples for approval testing must be drawn. Approval testing must be conducted in accordance with the operational tests in § 160.066-12 and the technical tests in § 160.066-13. In order for the signal to be approved, the samples must pass both the operational and the technical tests.
(c) The approval tests must be performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
§ 160.066-12 Operational tests.
(a) The procedure for conducting operational tests is described in figure (1).
(1) An “accept lot” decision must be reached in order to pass the operational tests.
(2) If a “reject lot” decision is reached, the entire lot is rejected.
(3) Signals from “reject lots” may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the deficiency for which they were rejected and be resubmitted for inspection. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the “reject lot”, and the result of the second test. Signals from “reject lots” may not, unless subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale as being in compliance with this specification.
(b) Each signal selected for the operational tests must be conditioned by:
(1) Being submerged under at least 25 mm (1 in.) of water for 24 hours without any protection other than its waterproofing; or
(2) If waterproofing is provided by a sealed plastic bag or other waterproof packaging, submersion under 25 mm (1 in.) of water for 24 hours in the packaging, followed immediately by submersion under 25 mm (1 in.) of water for 10 minutes with the signal removed from the packaging.
(c) After each signal selected has undergone the conditioning required by paragraph (b) of this section it must be fired as described by the manufacturer’s operating instructions. The following data as observed must be recorded for each signal:
(1) Burning time of the pyrotechnic candle;
(2) Color;
(3) Whether the pyrotechnic candle burns out above, at, or below the level of launch.
(d) A signal fails the operational tests if:
(1) It fails to fire,
(2) The pyrotechnic candle fails to ignite,
(3) The pyrotechnic candle continues to burn after it falls back to the level of launch,
(4) The observed color is other than vivid red, or
(5) The burning time is less than 5.5 seconds.
(e) A lot is rejected if a “reject lot” decision is reached using Figure (1) and Table 1 after completion of the operational tests.
Table 1—Accept and Reject Criteria for Operational Test Lots
| Lot size | Individual sample size | Sample | Cumulative sample size | Accept 1 | Reject 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 or | 8 | First | 8 | ( 2) | 4 |
| less. | Second | 16 | 1 | 5 | |
| Third | 24 | 2 | 6 | ||
| Fourth | 32 | 3 | 7 | ||
| Fifth | 40 | 5 | 8 | ||
| Sixth | 48 | 7 | 9 | ||
| Seventh | 56 | 9 | 10 | ||
| 281 to | 13 | First | 13 | ( 2) | 4 |
| 500. | Second | 26 | 1 | 6 | |
| Third | 39 | 3 | 8 | ||
| Fourth | 52 | 5 | 10 | ||
| Fifth | 65 | 7 | 11 | ||
| Sixth | 78 | 10 | 12 | ||
| Seventh | 91 | 13 | 14 | ||
| 501 to | 20 | First | 20 | ( 2) | 5 |
| 1,200. | Second | 40 | 3 | 8 | |
| Third | 60 | 6 | 10 | ||
| Fourth | 80 | 8 | 13 | ||
| Fifth | 100 | 11 | 15 | ||
| Sixth | 120 | 14 | 17 | ||
| Seventh | 140 | 18 | 19 | ||
| 1,201 to | 32 | First | 32 | 1 | 7 |
| 3,200. | Second | 64 | 4 | 10 | |
| Third | 96 | 8 | 13 | ||
| Fourth | 128 | 12 | 17 | ||
| Fifth | 160 | 17 | 20 | ||
| Sixth | 192 | 21 | 23 | ||
| Seventh | 224 | 25 | 26 | ||
| More | 50 | First | 50 | 2 | 9 |
| than | Second | 100 | 7 | 14 | |
| 3,200. | Third | 150 | 13 | 19 | |
| Fourth | 200 | 19 | 25 | ||
| Fifth | 250 | 25 | 29 | ||
| Sixth | 300 | 31 | 33 | ||
| Seventh | 350 | 37 | 38 |
1 Cumulative number of failures.
2 Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.
§ 160.066-13 Technical tests.
(a) The following conditions apply to technical tests as described in this section:
(1) A total of nine signals must be selected at random from the lot being tested;
(2) If the signals are protected by sealed packaging, then the conditioning for the technical tests must be conducted with the signal in the sealed packaging;
(3) If signals in the test sample fail to pass one of the technical tests, the entire lot is rejected;
(4) Signals from “reject lots” may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the deficiency for which they were rejected and be resubmitted for inspection. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the “reject lot”, and the result of the second test. Signals from “reject lots” may not, unless subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale as being in compliance with this specification.
(b) The Elevated Temperature, Humidity, and Storage Test must be conducted in the following manner:
(1) Select three signals from the nine;
(2) Place each signal in a thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 55 Degrees C (131 Degrees F), and at not less than 90% relative humidity, for at least 72 hours (If for any reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72 hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours of each 24 during the 72 hour conditioning period.);
(3) After removal from the oven immediately place each signal in a chamber:
(i) At a temperature of at least 20 degrees C (68 degrees F) but not more than 25 degrees C (77 degrees F);
(ii) At not less than 65% relative humidity;
(iii) For ten days;
(4) Then remove each signal from any sealed packaging and fire it.
(5) The test sample fails the test if:
(i) Any signal ignites or decomposes before firing;
(ii) Any signal when fired malfunctions in a manner that would cause burns or injury to an unprotected person firing the signal, or;
(iii) Two or more of the signals fail to project and ignite the pyrotechnic candle.
(c) The Spontaneous Combustion Test must be performed in the following manner:
(1) Select three signals from the remaining six signals and place them in a thermostatically controlled even temperature over for 48 hours at a temperature of 75 degrees C (167 degrees F).
(2) The test sample fails the test if any signal ignites or decomposes during the test.
(d) The Luminous Intensity and Chromaticity Test must be performed in the following manner:
(1) Remove the pyrotechnic candle from the remaining three signals.
(2) Ignite, measure, and record the intensity of the burning candle with a visual photometer or equivalent photometric device or automatic recorder:
(i) While the specimen is supported in a horizontal position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the specimen,
(ii) At a distance of at least 3 m (10 ft.).
(3) Calculate the intensity of the candle as in § 160.066-7(c).
(4) Measure and record the chromaticity of the burning candle as specified in § 160.021-4(d)(4).
(5) The test sample fails the test if more than one signal has a luminous intensity of less than 10,000 candela, or more than one signal is not “vivid red”.
§ 160.066-15 Production testing.
(a) Production tests must be performed under the procedures in Subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
(b) The operational tests in § 160.066-12 must be performed for every lot of signals produced.
(c) The technical tests in § 160.066-13 must be performed at least once every twelve months, or at least once every 10 lots, whichever occurs first.
(d) If a lot is rejected on the basis of the technical tests, then each subsequent lot produced must be tested according to the technical tests until samples from a lot pass these tests.
(e) An independent laboratory acceptable to the Commandant must perform or directly supervise:
(1) Each technical test, and
(2) All operational tests for at least four lots in a 12 month period, unless fewer than four lots are produced in a 12 month period. If less than four lots are produced in a 12 month period, each operational test must be performed or directly supervised by the independent laboratory.
(f) If a lot selected by the independent laboratory for an operational test is rejected, then the operational tests for the next lot produced, and the rejected lot, if reworked, must be performed or directly supervised by the independent laboratory. The tests required by this paragraph must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirements of paragraph (e).
(g) The independent laboratory selects the lots upon which technical tests are performed.
(h) If the manufacturer produces more than four lots within a 12 month period, the independent laboratory selects the lots for which it performs or directly supervises the operational tests.
(i) The operational test performed or directly supervised by the independent laboratory must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during that period.
(j) The independent laboratory, when it performs or directly supervises the technical tests required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this section, must inspect the signals selected for testing and compare them with the approved plans. Each signal inspected must conform to the plans.
Subpart 160.071 [Reserved]
Subpart 160.072—Distress Signals for Boats, Orange Flag
§ 160.072-1 Applicability.
(a) This subpart establishes standards for distress flags for boats.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.072-3 General performance requirements.
(a) Each flag must:
(1) Be a square or rectangle at least 90 cm (36 inches) wide and at least 90 cm (36 inches) long. If the flag is a rectangle, the shorter side cannot be less than
(2) Have no less than 70% of the total area colored a bright red-orange color;
(3) Display a black disc and a black square on the red-orange background on both sides arranged as follows:
(i) The diameter of the disc and the length of one side of the square shall be equal, and shall each be
(ii) The disc and square must be centered on one axis of the flag parallel to the longest side of the flag as shown in Figure 160.072-3. If the flag is a square, the axis may be parallel to any side.
(iii) The disc and square shall be separated by a distance of
(4) Be capable of passing the accelerated weathering test of § 160.072-5;
(5) Have reinforced corners, each with a grommet; and,
(6) Be packaged with 4 pieces of line, with a tensile strength of at least 225 N (Newtons) (50 lbs) no less than 30 cm (12 inches) long, capable of passing through the grommets freely.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.072-5 Accelerated weathering test.
(a) Condition the flag, folded to
(b) Unfold and suspend flag by the lines provided, secured through each grommet.
(c) Subject the flag to alternate 3 minute cycles of 5% by weight sodium chloride solution at 55 degrees (±5°) C and air blasts of 40 knots at 55 degrees (±5°) C, perpendicular to and over the entire surface of one side of the flag, without interruption for a period of not less than 24 hours.
(d) The flag fails the accelerated weathering test if
(1) After conditioning, the flag cannot be unfolded without damage,
(2) There is any tearing,
(3) The flag does not retain its bright red/orange color,
(4) The disc and square images no longer meet the requirements of § 160.072-3(a)(3) or,
(5) There is any visible rot over more than 3% of the flag’s surface.
§ 160.072-7 Manufacturer certification and labeling.
(a) Each distress flag intended as a Day Visual Distress Signal required by 33 CFR Part 175 must be certified by the manufacturer as complying with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Each distress flag must be legibly and indelibly marked with:
(1) The manufacturer’s name; and
(2) The following words—
“Day Visual Distress Signal for Boats. Complies with U.S. Coast Guard Requirements in 46 CFR 160.072. For Emergency Use Only”.
§ 160.072-09 Manufacturer notification.
(a) Each manufacturer certifying flags in accordance with the specifications of this subpart must send written notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509;
(1) Within 30 days after first certifying a flag,
(2) Every five years as long as the manufacturer continues to produce flags, and
(3) Each time the design or construction material of the flag changes.
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.073—Float-Free Link or Life Floats and Buoyant Apparatus
§ 160.073-1 Scope.
(a) This subpart contains requirements for a float-free link used for connecting a life float or buoyant apparatus painter to a vessel. The float-free link is designed to be broken by the buoyant force of the life float or buoyant apparatus so that the float or apparatus breaks free of a vessel that sinks in water deeper than the length of the painter.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.073-5 Certification.
(a) The float-free link is not approved by the Coast Guard. The manufacturer of the link must certify that it meets all of the requirements of this subpart by application of the markings required in § 160.073-20.
(b) If the manufacturer wants the link to be listed in the Coast Guard publication COMDTINST M16714.3 (Series), “Equipment Lists,” the manufacturer must send a letter requesting the listing to Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509..
§ 160.073-10 Construction and performance.
(a) The link must be constructed essentially as shown in figure 160.073-10. The link must be formed from a single salt water corrosion-resistant wire. A loop at least 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter must be provided at each end of the wire. Each loop must be permanently secured.
(b) The breaking strength of each link must be between:
(1) 450 N (100 lb.) and 600 N (134 lb.) for links intended for life floats and buoyant apparatus of 10 persons and less capacity.
(2) 900 N (200 lb.) and 1200 N (268 lb.) for links intended for life floats and buoyant apparatus of 11 to 20 persons capacity.
(3) 1800 N (400 lb.) and 2400 N (536 lb.) for links intended for life floats and buoyant apparatus of 21 persons and more capacity.
§ 160.073-15 Tests.
(a) The manufacturer shall perform a tensile test on the first three links made from a particular spool of wire. The test must be done by slowly loading the link until it breaks. The link must break between the limits specified in § 160.073-10(b). The break must occur in the length of wire at or between the points where the loops are secured (see Figure 160.073-10).
(b) If each of the three links passes the test, each link constructed in the same manner from the same spool of wire may be certified by the manufacturer as meeting the requirements of this subpart.
(c) If one or more of the three links fails the test, no link manufactured in the same manner and from the same spool of wire as the test links may be certified as meeting the requirements of this subpart.
§ 160.073-20 Marking.
(a) Each link certified by the manufacturer to meet the requirements of this subpart must have a corrosion resistant, waterproof tag attached to it that has the following information on it (the manufacturer must make the appropriate entries in the indicated space):
(b) [Reserved]
Subpart 160.076—Inflatable Recreational Personal Flotation Devices
§ 160.076-1 Scope.
(a) This subpart contains structural and performance standards for approval of inflatable recreational personal flotation devices (PFDs), as well as requirements for production follow-up inspections, associated manuals, information pamphlets, and markings.
(b) Inflatable PFDs approved under this subpart rely entirely upon inflation for buoyancy.
§ 160.076-3 Applicability.
Inflatable PFDs approved under this subpart may be used to meet the carriage requirements of 33 CFR 175.15 and 175.17 on the following types of vessels only:
(a) Recreational vessels.
(b) Uninspected recreational submersible vessels.
§ 160.076-5 Definitions.
As used in this part:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Conditional approval means a PFD approval which has condition(s) with which the user must comply in order for the PFD to be counted toward meeting the carriage requirements for the vessel on which it is being used.
First quality workmanship means construction which is free from any defect materially affecting appearance or serviceability.
Inflation medium means any solid, liquid, or gas that, when activated, provides inflation for buoyancy.
Inspector means a recognized laboratory representative assigned to perform, supervise or oversee the duties described in §§ 160.076-29 and 160.076-31 of this subpart or any Coast Guard representative performing duties related to the approval.
MOU means memorandum of understanding which describes the approval functions a recognized independent laboratory performs for the Coast Guard, and the recognized independent laboratory’s working arrangements with the Coast Guard.
Performance type means the in-water performance classification of the PFD.
PFD means personal flotation device as defined in 33 CFR 175.13.
Plans and specifications means the drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of materials submitted in accordance with § 160.076-13 for approval of a PFD design.
§ 160.076-7 [Reserved]
§ 160.076-9 Conditional approval.
(a) A conditionally approved inflatable PFD may be used to meet the Coast Guard PFD carriage requirements of 33 CFR part 175 only if the PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the approval label. PFDs marked “Approved only when worn” must be worn whenever the vessel is underway and the intended wearer is not within an enclosed space if the PFD is intended to be used to satisfy the requirements of 33 CFR part 175. Note: Additional approved PFDs may be needed to satisfy the requirements of 33 CFR part 175 if “Approved only when worn” PFDs are not worn.
(b) PFDs not meeting the performance specifications in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) may be conditionally approved when the Commandant determines that the performance or design characteristics of the PFD make such classification appropriate.
§ 160.076-11 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the following paragraph of this section.
(b) Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096 (Phone (847) 272-8800; Facsimile: (847) 272-8129; Web site: www.ul.com).
(1) UL 1123, UL Standard for Safety for Marine Buoyant Devices, Seventh Edition including revisions through February 14, 2011, (dated October 1, 2008), (“UL 1123”), incorporation by reference approved for § 160.076-35.
(2) UL 1180, UL Standard for Safety for Fully Inflatable Recreational Personal Flotation Devices, Second Edition including revisions through December 3, 2010, (dated February 13, 2009), (“UL 1180”), incorporation by reference approved for §§ 160.076-7; 160.076-9; 160.076-21; 160.076-23; 160.076-25; 160.076-31; 160.076-37; and 160.076-39.
(3) UL 1191, UL Standard for Safety for Components for Personal Flotation Devices, Fourth Edition including revisions through August 24, 2011, (dated December 12, 2008), (“UL 1191”), incorporation by reference approved for §§ 160.076-21; 160.076-25; 160.076-29; and 160.076-31.
§ 160.076-13 Approval procedures for inflatable PFDs.
(a) Manufacturers seeking approval of an inflatable PFD design shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
(b) Each application for approval of an inflatable PFD must contain the information specified in § 159.005-5 of this chapter. The application must be submitted to a recognized laboratory. One copy of the application and, except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, a prototype PFD must be submitted to the Commandant for preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, the Commandant may authorize the recognized laboratory to waive the preapproval review under §§ 159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this chapter.
(c) The application must include the following:
(1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by § 159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
(2) The information specified in § 159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through (iii) of this chapter must be included in the application, except that, if preapproval review has been waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype PFD sample to the Commandant.
(3) Any special purpose(s) for which the PFD is designed and the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
(4) Buoyancy, torque, and other relevant tolerances to be met during production.
(5) The text of any optional marking to be included on the PFD in addition to the markings required by § 160.076-39.
(6) A draft of the information pamphlet required by § 160.076-35.
(7) A draft of the owner’s manual required by § 160.076-37.
(8) For any conditionally approved PFD, the intended approval condition(s).
(d) The description required by § 159.005-9 of this chapter of quality control procedures may be omitted if the manufacturer’s planned quality control procedures meet the requirements of §§ 160.076-29 and 160.076-31.
(e) Manual and pamphlet. Before granting approval of a PFD design, the Commandant may require changes to the manual and information pamphlet submitted for review to ensure compliance with the requirements of §§ 160.076-35 and 160.076-37.
(f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant waive any test prescribed for approval under this subpart. To request a waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the recognized laboratory, one of the following:
(1) Satisfactory test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar design as determined by the Commandant.
(2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, it is not possible for the PFD to fail that test.
(g) Alternative requirements. A PFD that does not meet the requirements of this subpart may be approved by the Commandant if the device—
(1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in place of or in addition to the requirements of this subpart; and
(2) As determined by the Commandant, provides at least the same degree of safety provided by other PFDs that meet the requirements of this subpart.
§ 160.076-15 Suspension or termination of approval.
As provided in § 159.005-15 of this chapter, the Commandant may suspend or terminate the approval of an inflatable PFD design if the manufacturer fails to comply with this subpart or the recognized laboratory’s accepted procedures or requirements.
§ 160.076-17 Approval of design or material changes.
(a) The manufacturer must submit any proposed changes in design, material, or construction to the recognized laboratory and the Commandant for approval before changing PFD production methods.
(b) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials may be made only by the Commandant or a designated representative.
§ 160.076-19 Recognized laboratories.
The approval and production oversight functions that this subpart requires to be conducted by a recognized laboratory must be conducted by an independent laboratory recognized by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of part 159 of this chapter to perform such functions. A list of recognized independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
§ 160.076-21 Component materials.
Each component material used in the manufacture of an inflatable PFD must—
(a) Meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter, UL 1191 and UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11), and this section; and
(b) Be of good quality and suitable for the purpose intended.
§ 160.076-23 Construction and performance requirements.
(a) Each inflatable PFD design must—
(1) Meet the requirements in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11); and
(2) Meet any additional requirements that the Commandant may prescribe to approve unique or novel designs.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.076-25 Approval testing.
(a) To obtain approval of an inflatable PFD design, approval tests specified in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) and this section must be conducted or supervised by a recognized laboratory using PFDs that have been constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications submitted with the application for approval.
(b) Each PFD design must pass the tests required by UL 1180 and this section.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Each PFD design must be visually examined for compliance with the construction and performance requirements of §§ 160.076-21 and 160.076-23 and UL 1180 and UL 1191 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11).
(e) Additional tests. The Commandant may prescribe additional tests for approval of novel or unique designs.
§ 160.076-27 [Reserved]
§ 160.076-29 Production oversight.
(a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless the Commandant determines that the employees of an alternative laboratory have received training and have access to the same information as the inspectors of the laboratory that conducted the approval testing.
(c) In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter and the accepted Laboratory Follow-up Procedures, each manufacturer of an inflatable PFD and each recognized laboratory inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
(1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must—
(i) Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, perform all required tests and examinations on each PFD lot before any required inspector’s tests and inspection of the lot;
(ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product;
(iii) Implement a continuing program of employee training and a program for maintaining production and test equipment;
(iv) Admit the inspector to any place in the factory where work is done on PFDs or component materials, and where parts or completed PFDs are stored;
(v) Have an inspector observe the production methods used in producing the first PFD lot and observe any revisions in production methods made thereafter; and
(vi) Allow the inspector to take samples of completed PFDs or of component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests relating to the safety of the design.
(2) Recognized laboratory oversight. An inspector from a recognized laboratory shall oversee production in accordance with the MOU. During production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any production test or inspection unless—
(i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and
(ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer’s production methods and any revisions to those methods.
(3) The inspector must perform or supervise testing and inspection of at least one in each five lots of PFDs produced.
(4) During each inspection, the inspector must check for compliance with the manufacturer’s quality control procedures.
(5) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(6) of this section, at least once each calendar quarter, the inspector must examine the manufacturer’s records required by § 160.076-33 and observe the manufacturer perform each of the tests required by § 160.076-31(c).
(6) If less than six lots are produced during a calendar year, only one lot inspection and one records’ examination and test performance observation are required during that year. Each lot tested and inspected under paragraph (c)(3) of this section must be within seven lots of the previous lot inspected.
(d) PFD lots. A lot number must be assigned to each group of PFDs produced. Lots must be numbered serially. A new lot must be started whenever any change in materials or a revision to a production method is made, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. Changes in lots of component materials must be treated as changes in materials. The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the PFD manufacturer, by referring to the records required by this subpart, to determine the supplier of the components used in the PFD and the component supplier’s identifying information for the component lot.
(e) Samples. For the tests, examinations, and inspections required by § 160.076-31, inspectors and manufacturers shall select samples as provided in this paragraph.
(1) Samples shall be selected at random from a lot in which all PFDs or materials in the lot are available for selection. Except as provided in § 160.076-31(c), samples must be selected from completed PFDs.
(2) Different samples must be selected for the manufacturer’s and inspector’s tests, except, if the total production for any five consecutive lots does not exceed 250 PFDs, the manufacturer’s and inspector’s tests may be run on the same sample(s) at the same time.
(3) The number of samples selected per lot must be at least equal to the applicable number required by Table 160.076-29A for manufacturers or Table 160.076-29B for inspectors.
(4) The following additional requirements apply as indicated in Table 160.076-29A to individual sample selections by manufacturers:
(i) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. The tests required under paragraphs 160.076-25(d)(2)(i) through 160.076-25(d)(2)(iv) prescribe the number of samples to select.
(i) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. Unless otherwise specified, Table 29.1 of UL 1191 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) prescribes the number of samples to select.
(iii) If a sample fails the over-pressure test, the number of samples to be tested in the next lot produced must be at least two percent of the total number of PFDs in the lot or 10 PFDs, whichever is greater.
(iv) The indicated test must be conducted at least once each calendar quarter or whenever a new lot of material is used or a production process is revised.
(5) The following additional requirements apply as indicated in Table 160.076-29B to individual sample selections by inspectors:
(i) Samples selected for the indicated tests may not be used for more than one test.
(ii) The indicated test may be omitted if it was conducted by the manufacturer on the materials used and by the inspector on a previous lot within the past 12 months.
(iii) One sample of each means of marking on each type of fabric or finish used in PFD construction must be tested at least every six months or whenever a new lot of materials is used.
Table 160.076-29A—Manufacturer’s Sampling Plan
| Number of Samples Per Lot | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lot size: | 1-100 | 101-200 | 201-300 | 301-500 | 501-750 | 751-1000 |
| Tests: | ||||||
| Inflation Chamber Materials | See Note (a) | |||||
| Seam Strength | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Over-pressure (b) (c) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Air Retention | EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT | |||||
| Buoyancy and Inflation Medium Retention | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Tensile Strength | See Note (d) | |||||
| Detailed Product Examination | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Retest Sample Size (b) | 13 | 13 | 20 | 20 | ||
| Final Lot Inspection | EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT | |||||
Notes to Table:
(a) See § 160.076-29(e)(4)(i).
(b) See § 160.076-29(e)(4)(ii).
(c) See § 160.076-29(e)(4)(iii).
(d) See § 160.076-29(e)(4)(iv).
Table 160.076-29B—Inspector’s Sampling Plan
| Number of Samples Per Lot | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lot size: | 1-100 | 101-200 | 201-300 | 301-500 | 501-750 | 751-1000 |
| Tests: | ||||||
| Over-pressure (a) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Air Retention | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Buoyancy & Inflation Medium Retention | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Tensile Strength | See Note (b) | |||||
| Waterproof marking | See Note (c) | |||||
| Detailed Project Examination | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Retest Sample Size (a) | 10 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 20 | 20 |
| Final Lot Inspection | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 27 | 30 |
Notes to Table:
(a) See § 160.076-29(e)(5)(i).
(b) See § 160.076-29(e)(5)(ii).
(c) See § 160.076-29(e)(5)(iii).
(f) Accept/reject criteria: manufacturer testing. (1) A PFD lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
(2) In lots of 200 or less PFDs, the lot must be rejected if any sample fails one or more tests.
(3) In lots of more than 200 PFDs, the lot must be rejected if—
(i) One sample fails more than one test;
(ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or
(iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.076-29A, one or more samples fail the retest.
(4) A rejected PFD lot may be retested only if allowed under § 160.076-31(e).
(g) Accept/reject criteria: independent laboratory testing. (1) A lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
(2) A lot must be rejected if—
(i) A sample fails more than one test;
(ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or
(iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.076-29B, one or more samples fail the test.
(3) A rejected lot may be retested only if allowed under § 160.076-31(e).
(h) Facilities and equipment—(1) General. The manufacturer must provide the test equipment and facilities necessary for performing production tests, examinations, and inspections, unless Commandant has accepted testing at a location other than the manufacturer’s facility.
(2) Calibration. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked at least every six months by a weights and measures agency or the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
(3) Facilities. The manufacturer must provide a suitable place and the necessary equipment for the inspector to use in conducting or supervising tests. For the final lot inspection, the manufacturer must provide a suitable working environment and a smooth-top table for the inspector’s use.
§ 160.076-31 Production tests and examinations.
(a) Samples used in testing must be selected in accordance with § 160.076-29(e).
(b) On each sample selected—
(1) The manufacturer must conduct the tests in paragraphs (c)(2) through (c)(8) of this section;
(2) The recognized laboratory inspector must conduct or supervise the tests in paragraphs (c)(4) through (c)(8) of this section; and
(3) In addition to meeting the requirements of this section, each test result must meet the requirements, if any, contained in the approved plans and specifications.
(c) When conducting the tests specified by this paragraph, the following conditions must be met:
(1) Inflation chamber materials. The materials in each inflatable chamber must comply with the requirements in Table 29.1 of UL 1191 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) for permeability, grab strength, and tear strength. Lots not meeting this requirement must be rejected and, unless authorized by the Commandant, may not be subdivided and retested.
(2) Seam strength. The seams in each inflation chamber of each sample must be tested in accordance with Table 29.1 of UL 1191.
(3) Over-pressure. Each sample must be tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) section 41. Prior to initiating the test at the specified values, samples may be prestressed by inflating them to a greater pressure than the required test pressure.
(4) Air retention. Each sample must be tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 section 42. Prior to initiating the test at the specified values, test samples may be prestressed by inflating to a pressure greater than the design pressure, but not exceeding 50 percent of the required pressure for the tests in paragraph (c)(3) of this section. No alternate test method may be used that decreases the length of the test unless authorized by the Commandant. Such alternative test must require a proportionately lower allowable pressure loss and the same percentage sensitivity and accuracy as the standard allowable loss measured with the standard instrumentation.
(5) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention. Each sample must be tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 section 29. Each buoyancy value must fall within the tolerances specified in the approved plans and specifications.
(6) Tensile strength. Each sample primary closure system must be tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 section 31.
(7) Detailed product examination. Each sample PFD must be disassembled to the extent necessary to determine compliance with the following:
(i) All dimensions and seam allowances must be within tolerances prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
(ii) The torque of each screw type mechanical fastener must be within its tolerance as prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
(iii) The arrangement, markings, and workmanship must be as specified in the approved plans and specifications and this subpart.
(iv) The PFD must not contain any apparent defects.
(8) Waterproof Marking Test. Each sample must be completely submerged in fresh water for at least 30 minutes. The sample must then be removed, immediately placed on a hard surface, and the markings vigorously rubbed with the fingers for 15 seconds. If the printing becomes illegible, the sample must be rejected.
(d) Final lot examination and inspection—(1) General. On each PFD lot that passes production testing, the manufacturer shall perform a final lot examination and, on every fifth lot, a laboratory inspector shall perform a final lot inspection. Samples must be selected in accordance with paragraph § 160.076-29(e). Each final lot must demonstrate—
(i) First quality workmanship;
(ii) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components, such as body straps, closures, inflation mechanisms, tie tapes, and drawstrings, are as specified in the approved plans and specifications;
(iii) Compliance with the marking requirements in § 160.076-39; and
(iv) That the information pamphlet and owner’s manual required by § 160.076-35 and 160.076-37, respectively, are securely attached to the device, with the pamphlet selection information visible and accessible prior to purchase.
(2) Accept/reject criteria. Each nonconforming PFD must be rejected. If three or more nonconforming PFDs are rejected for the same kind of defect, lot examination or inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected.
(3) Manufacturer examination. This examination must be conducted by a manufacturer’s representative who is familiar with the approved plans and specifications, the functioning of the PFD and its components, and the production testing procedures. This person must not be responsible for meeting production schedules or be supervised by someone who is. This person must prepare and sign the record required by 159.007-13(a) of this chapter and 160.076-33(b).
(4) Independent laboratory inspection. (i) The inspector must discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if examination of individual PFDs or the records for the lot shows noncompliance with either this section or the laboratory’s or the manufacturer’s quality control procedures.
(ii) If the inspector rejects a lot, the inspector must advise the Commandant or the recognized laboratory within 15 days.
(iii) The inspector must prepare and sign the inspection record required by 159.007-13(a) of this chapter and 160.076-33(b). If the lot passes, the record must include the inspector’s certification that the lot passed inspection and that no evidence of noncompliance with this section was observed.
(e) Disposition of rejected PFD lot or PFD. (1) A rejected PFD lot may be resubmitted for testing, examination or inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each defective PFD or, if authorized by the Commandant, reworks the lot to correct the defect.
(2) Any PFD rejected in a final lot examination or inspection may be resubmitted for examination or inspection if all defects have been corrected and reexamination or reinspection is authorized by the Commandant.
(3) A rejected lot or rejected PFD may not be sold or offered for sale under the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is Coast Guard-approved.
§ 160.076-33 Manufacturer records.
(a) Each manufacturer of inflatable PFDs shall keep the records of production inspections and tests as required by § 159.007-13 of this chapter, except that they must be retained for at least 120 months after the month in which the inspection or test was conducted.
(b) In addition to the information required by § 159.007-13 of this chapter, the manufacturer’s records must also include the following information:
(1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if more than one test instrument was available.
(2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples used, the lot number, the approval number, and the number of PFDs in the lot.
(3) For each lot rejected, the cause for rejection, any corrective action taken, and the final disposition of the lot.
(4) For all materials used in production the—
(i) Name and address of the supplier;
(ii) Date of purchase and receipt;
(iii) Lot number; and
(iv) Where required by § 164.019-5 of this chapter, the certification received with standard components.
(5) A copy of this subpart.
(6) Each document incorporated by reference in § 160.076-11.
(7) A copy of the approved plans and specifications.
(8) The approval certificate obtained in accordance with § 2.75-1 and 2.75-5 of this chapter.
(9) Certificates evidencing calibration of test equipment, including the identity of the agency performing the calibration, date of calibration, and results.
(c) A description or photographs of procedures and equipment used in testing required by § 159.007-13(a)(4) of this chapter, is not required if the manufacturer’s procedures and equipment meet the requirements of this subpart.
(d) The records required by paragraph (b)(4) of this section must be kept for at least 120 months after preparation. All other records required by paragraph (b) of this section must be kept for at least 60 months after the PFD approval expires or is terminated.
§ 160.076-35 Information pamphlet.
A pamphlet that is consistent in format to that specified in UL 1123 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11) must be attached to each inflatable PFD sold or offered for sale in such a way that a prospective purchaser can read the pamphlet prior to purchase. The pamphlet text and layout must be submitted to the Commandant for approval. The text must be printed in each pamphlet exactly as approved by the Commandant. Additional information, instructions, or illustrations must not be included within the approved text and layout. Sample pamphlet text and layout may be obtained by contacting the Commandant. This pamphlet may be combined with the manual required by § 160.076-37 if PFD selection and warning information is provided on the PFD packaging in such a way that it remains visible until purchase.
§ 160.076-37 Owner’s manual.
(a) General. The manufacturer must provide an owner’s manual with each inflatable PFD sold or offered for sale. A draft of the manual for each model must be submitted for approval in accordance with § 160.076-13.
(b) Manual contents. Each owner’s manual must contain the information specified in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11), and, if the PFD is conditionally approved, an explanation of the meaning of, and reasons for, the approval conditions.
§ 160.076-39 Marking.
Each inflatable PFD must be marked as specified in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.076-11). At a minimum, all labels must include—
(a) Size information, as appropriate;
(b) The Coast Guard approval number;
(c) Manufacturer’s contact information;
(d) Model name/number;
(e) Lot number, manufacturer date; and
(f) Any limitations or restrictions on approval or special instructions for use.
Subpart 160.077—Hybrid Inflatable Personal Flotation Devices
§ 160.077-1 Scope.
(a) This specification contains requirements for approving hybrid inflatable personal flotation devices (hybrid PFDs).
(b) Under this chapter and 33 CFR part 175, certain commercial vessels and recreational boats may carry Type I, II, or III hybrid PFDs to meet carriage requirements. Type V hybrid PFDs may be substituted for other required PFDs if they are worn under conditions prescribed in their manual as required by § 160.077-29 and on their marking as prescribed in § 160.077-31. For recreational boats or boaters involved in a special activity, hybrid PFD approval may also be limited to that activity.
(c) Unless approved as a Type I SOLAS Lifejacket, a hybrid PFD on an inspected commercial vessel will be approved only—
(1) As work vest; or
(2) For the special purpose stated on the approval certificate and PFD marking.
(d) A hybrid PFD may be approved for adults, weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); youths, weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb); small children, weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb); or for the size range of persons for which the design has been tested, as indicated on the PFD’s label.
(e) This specification also contains requirements for—
(1) Manufacturers and sellers of recreational hybrid PFD’s to provide an information pamphlet and owner’s manual with each PFD; and
(2) Manufacturers of commercial hybrid PFD’s to provide a user’s manual.
§ 160.077-2 Definitions.
(a) Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
(b) Commercial hybrid PFD means a hybrid PFD approved for use on commercial vessels identified on the PFD label.
(c) First quality workmanship means construction which is free from any defect materially affecting appearance or serviceability.
(d) Hybrid PFD means a personal flotation device that has at least one inflation chamber in combination with inherently buoyant material.
(e) Inflation medium means any solid, liquid, or gas, that, when activated, provides inflation for buoyancy.
(f) Inspector means an independent laboratory representative assigned to perform duties described in § 160.077-23.
(g) PFD means a personal flotation device of a type approved under this subpart.
(h) Recreational hybrid PFD means a hybrid PFD approved for use on a recreational boat as defined in 33 CFR 175.3.
(i) [Reserved]
(j) Reference vest means a model AK-1, adult PFD; model CKM-1, child medium PFD; or model CKS-2, child small PFD, meeting the requirements of subpart 160.047 of this chapter, except that, in lieu of the weight and displacement values prescribed in Tables 160.047-4(c)(2) and 160.047-4(c)(4), each insert must have the minimum weight of kapok and displacement as shown in Table 160.077-2(j). To achieve the specified volume displacement, front and back insert pad coverings may be larger than the dimensions prescribed by § 160.047-1(b) and the width of the front fabric envelope and height of the back fabric envelope may be increased to accommodate a circumference no greater than 1/4″ larger than the filled insert circumference. As an alternative, unicellular plastic foam inserts of the specified displacement and of an equivalent shape, as accepted by the Commandant, may be substituted for kapok inserts.
Table 160.077-2(
| Reference PFD type | Front insert (2 each) | Back insert | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum kapok weight g (oz) | Volume displacement N (lb) | Minimum kapok weight g (oz) | Volume displacement N (lb) | |
| Devices for adults, weighing over 40 kg (90 lb): | ||||
| Type II, III, and V Recreational | 234 (8.25) | 40±1 (9.0±0.25) | 156 (5.5) | 27±1 (6.0±0.25) |
| Devices for youths, weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb): | ||||
| Type I | 184 (6.5) | 31±1 (7.0±0.25) | 170 (6.0) | 30±1 (6.5±0.25) |
| Type II, III, and V 1 | 156 (5.5) | 26±1 (5.75±0.25) | 149 (5.25) | 24±1 (5.5±0.l25) |
| Devices for small children, weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb): | ||||
| Type I | 128 (4.5) | 21±1 (4.75±0.25) | 156 (5.5) | 30±1 (6.5±0.25) |
| Type II | 100 (3.5) | 17±1 (3.75±0.25) | 135 (4.75) | 22±1 (5.0±0.25) |
1 Both Recreational and Commercial.
(k) Second stage donning means adjustments or steps necessary to make a PFD provide its intended flotation characteristics after the device has been properly donned and then inflated.
(l) SOLAS lifejacket, in the case of a hybrid inflatable PFD, means a PFD approved as meeting the requirements for lifejackets in the 1983 Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS 74/83), in addition to the requirements of this subpart.
§ 160.077-3 Required to be worn.
(a) A Type V hybrid PFD may be used to meet the Coast Guard PFD carriage requirements of subpart 25.25 of this chapter, and 33 CFR part 175, only if the PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the approval label. PFDs marked “REQUIRED TO BE WORN” must be worn whenever the vessel is underway and the intended wearer is not within an enclosed space.
(b) If hybrid PFD’s with the marking “REQUIRED TO BE WORN” are not worn under the conditions stated in paragraph (a) of this section, other approved PFD’s will have to be provided to comply with the applicable carriage requirements in 33 CFR part 175 and subpart 25.25 of this chapter.
(c) The following PFD’s must be marked “REQUIRED TO BE WORN” as specified in § 160.077-31:
(1) Each Type V recreational hybrid PFD.
(2) Each Type V commercial hybrid PFD.
§ 160.077-4 Type.
(a) A hybrid PFD that successfully passes all applicable tests may be approved as a Type I, II, III, or V for various size ranges of persons weighing over 23 kg (50 lb), as Type I or II for persons weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb) or as Type I or II for other sizes. A Type V PFD has limitations on its approval.
(b) The approval tests in this subpart require each Type V hybrid PFD to have at least the same performance as a Type I, II, or III PFD for adult and youth sizes or Type I or II PFD for child sizes.
(c) A hybrid PFD may be approved for use on recreational boats, commercial vessels or both if the applicable requirements are met.
§ 160.077-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, 877-909-2786, http://www.astm.org.
(1) ASTM B 117-97, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus, into § 160.077-11.
(2) ASTM D 751-95, Standard Test Methods for Coated Fabrics, incorporation by reference approved for § 160.077-19.
(3) ASTM D1434-82 (Reapproved 2009)
(c) DLA Document Services, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4/D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, 215-697-6396, http://assistdocs.com.
(1) In Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 the following test methods:
(i) Method 5100, Strength and Elongation, Breaking of Woven Cloth; Grab Method.
(ii) Method 5132, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Falling-Pendulum Method.
(iii) Method 5134, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Tongue Method.
(iv) Method 5804.1, Weathering Resistance of Cloth; Accelerated Weathering Method.
(v) Method 5762, Mildew Resistance of Textile Materials; Soil Burial Method.
(2) Federal Standard No. 751, Stitches, Seams, and Stitching.
(3) MIL-L-24611(SH), Life Preserver Support Package for Life Preserver, MK 4.
(d) National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (formerly National Bureau of Standards), 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, 301-975-6478, http://www.nist.gov.
(1) “The Universal Color Language” and “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Institute of Standards Special Publication 440.
(2) [Reserved]
(e) Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), 12 Laboratory Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, 919-549-1400, http://www.ul.com.
(1) UL 1191, Components for Personal Flotation Devices.
(2) UL 1517, Standard for Hybrid Personal Flotation Devices (November 12, 1984), incorporation by reference approved for 46 CFR 160.077-5(e)(2); 160.077-11(a)(5)(ii) and(g)(1); 160.077-15(b)(12); 160.077-17(b)(9); 160.077-19(a)(5) and (b)(1) through (18); 160.077-21(c)(1) through (5); 160.077-23(h)(4) through (7); 160.077-27(e)(1) and (4); and 160.077-29(c)(5), (7), and (9), and (d)(1) and (5).
§ 160.077-6 Approval procedures.
(a) General. Subpart 159.005 of this chapter contains the approval procedures. Those procedures must be followed, excepted as modified in this paragraph.
(1) Preapproval review under §§ 159.005-5 and 159.005-7 may be omitted if a similar design has already been approved.
(2) The information required in all three subparagraphs of § 159.005-5(a)(2) must be included in the application.
(3) The application must also include the following:
(i) The type of performance (i.e. Donned Type I, Type II or Type III) that the PFD is designed to provide.
(ii) Any special purpose(s) for which the PFD is designed and the vessel(s) or type(s) of vessel on which its use is planned.
(iii) Buoyancy and torque tolerances to be allowed in production.
(iv) The text of any optional marking to be provided in addition to required text.
(v) The manual required by § 160.077-29 (UL 1517 text may be omitted in this submission).
(vi) The size range of wearers that the device is intended to fit.
(4) The description of quality control procedures required by § 159.005-9 of this chapter to be submitted with the test report may be omitted as long as the manufacturer’s planned quality control procedures comply with § 160.077-23.
(b) Waiver of tests. If a manufacturer requests that any test in this subpart be waived, one of the following must be provided to the Commandant as justification for the waiver:
(1) Acceptable test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar design.
(2) Engineering analysis showing that the test is not applicable to the particular design or that by design or construction the PFD cannot fail the test.
(c) Alternative Requirements. A PFD that does not meet requirements in this subpart may still be approved if the device—
(1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in place of or in addition to requirements in this subpart; and
(2) Provides at least the same degree of safety provided by other PFD’s that do comply with this subpart.
§ 160.077-7 Procedure for approval of design or material revision.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction of an approved PFD must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production of PFDs.
(b) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials may be made only by the Commandant.
§ 160.077-9 Recognized laboratory.
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under § 159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart: Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
§ 160.077-11 Materials—Recreational Hybrid PFD’s.
(a) General—(1) Application. This section contains requirements for materials used in recreational hybrid PFD’s.
(2) Condition of Materials. All materials must be new.
(3) Acceptance, certification, and quality. All components used in the construction of hybrid PFDs must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
(4) Temperature range. Unless otherwise specified in standards incorporated by reference in this section, all materials must be designed for use in all weather conditions throughout a temperature range of −30 °C to + 65 °C (−22 °F to + 150 °F).
(5) Weathering Resistance. Each non-metallic component which is not suitably covered to shield against ultraviolet exposure must be designed to—
(i) Retain at least 40% of its strength after being subjected to 300 hours of sunshine carbon arc weathering as specified by Method 5804.1 of Federal Test Method Standard Number 191; or
(ii) Meet UL 1517, section 4.3.
(6) Fungus Resistance. Each non-metallic component must be designed to retain at least 90% of its strength after being subjected to the mildew resistance test specified by Method 5762 of Federal Test Method Standard 191 when untreated cotton is used as the control specimen. Also, the gas transmission rate of inflation chamber materials must not be increased by more than 10% after being subjected to this test. Materials that are covered when used in the PFD may be tested with that covering.
(7) Corrosion resistance. Each metal component must be—
(i) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact with it; and
(ii) Unless it is expendable (such as an inflation medium cartridge), 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air corrosion characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel or perform its intended function, and have no visible pitting or other damage on any surface, after 720 hours of salt spray testing according to ASTM B 117 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.077-5).
(8) Materials not covered. Materials not covered in this section must be of good quality and suitable for the purpose intended.
(b) Flotation material. Inherent buoyancy must be provided by—
(1) Plastic foam meeting—
(i) Subpart 164.013 of this chapter;
(ii) Subpart 164.015 of this chapter; or
(iii) UL 1191 and having a V factor of 89 except that foam with a lower V factor may be used if it provides buoyancy which, after a normal service life, is at least equal to that of a PFD made with material having a V factor of 89 and the required minimum inherent buoyancy when new; or
(2) Kapok meeting subpart 164.003 of this chapter.
(c) Fabric—(1) All fabric. All fabric, except inner envelope fabric, must—
(i) Be of a type accepted for use on Type I PFD’s approved under subpart 160.002 of this chapter; or
(ii) Meet the Type V requirements for “Fabrics for Wearable Devices” in UL 1191, except that its breaking strength must be at least 400 N (90 lb.) in both the directions of greater and lesser thread count.
(2) Rubber coated fabric. Rubber coated fabric must be of a copper-inhibiting type.
(3) Inner envelope fabric. Inner envelope fabric must—
(i) Meet the requirements in paragraph (c)(i) of this section; or
(ii) Be of a type accepted for use on Type II PFD’s approved under subpart 160.047 of this chapter.
(d) Inflation chamber materials—(1) All materials. The average permeability of inflation chamber material must not be more than 110% of the permeability of materials determined in approval testing prescribed in § 160.077-19(d). The average grab breaking strength and tear strength of the material must be at least 90% of the grab breaking strength and tear strength determined from testing prescribed in § 160.077-19(d). No individual sample result for breaking strength or tear strength may be more than 20% below the results obtained in approval testing.
(2) Fabric covered chambers. Each material used in the construction of inflation chambers that are covered with fabric must meet the requirements specified for—
(i) Bladder materials in section 3.2.6 of MIL-L-24611(SH) if the material is an unsupported film, except that any color or finish may be used; or
(ii) Coated fabric in section 3.1.1 of TSO-C13 if the material is a coated fabric.
(3) Uncovered chambers. Each material used in the construction of inflation chambers that are not covered with fabric must meet the requirements specified in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) and (a)(5)(i) of this section.
(e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam. Thread and fabric combinations must have similar elongation and durability characteristics.
(f) Webbing. Webbing used as a body strap, tie tape or drawstring, or reinforcing tape must meet § 160.002-3(e), § 160.002-3(f), and § 160.002-3(h) of this chapter respectively. Webbing used for tie tape or drawstring must be capable of easily holding a knot and being easily tied and untied. Webbing used as reinforcing tape must be smooth enough to prevent chafing the wearer.
(g) Closures—(1) Strength. Each closure such as a buckle, snap hook and dee ring, or other type of fastening must comply with UL 1517, section 4.1. The width of each closure opening through which body strap webbing passes must be the same as the width of that webbing.
(2) Means of Locking. Each closure used to secure a PFD to the body, except a zipper, must have a quick and positive means of locking, such as a snap hook and dee ring.
(3) Zipper. If a zipper is used to secure a PFD to the wearer it must be—
(i) Easily initiated;
(ii) Non-jamming;
(iii) Right handed; and
(iv) Of a locking type.
(h) Inflation medium. If a hybrid PFD has an automatic or manual inflation mechanism—
(1) The inflation medium must not contain or produce compounds more toxic than CO
(2) Any chemical reaction during inflation must not leave a toxic residue.
(i) [Reserved]
(j) Kapok pad covering. If kapok flotation material is used, pad covering that meets § 160.047-3(e) of this chapter must be provided to enclose the material in at least three separate pads.
§ 160.077-13 Materials—Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.
(a) General. All commercial hybrid PFD materials must meet § 160.077-11 and this section.
(b) Closures. Each closure other than a zipper must have a minimum breaking strength of 1000 N (225 lbs). If a zipper is used to secure the PFD to the body, it must be used in combination with another closure that has a quick and positive means of locking.
(c) Retroreflective Material. Each PFD must have at least 200 sq. cm. (31 sq. in.) of retroreflective material on its front side, at least 200 sq. cm. on its back side and at least 200 sq. cm. of material on each reversible side, if any. The material must be Type I material that is approved under Subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The material attached on each side must be divided equally between the upper quadrants of the side. The material, as attached, must not impair PFD performance.
§ 160.077-15 Construction and Performance—Recreational Hybrid PFD.
(a) Performance. (1) Each recreational hybrid PFD must be able to pass the tests in § 160.077-19.
(2) Each recreational hybrid PFD must—
(i) If second stage donning is required, have an obvious method for doing it;
(ii) If it is to be marked as Type II or Type V providing Type I or II performance, not require second stage donning to achieve that performance;
(iii) Be capable of being worn while inflated at 60 N (13 lb.) of buoyancy without significantly changing its appearance from, or making it significantly less comfortable than, the uninflated condition;
(iv) Not cause significant discomfort to the wearer during and after inflation; and
(v) If it has a manual or automatic inflation mechanism and can be put on inside out, not restrict breathing when donned inside out, adjusted to fit, and inflated.
(b) Construction; General. Each recreational hybrid PFD must—
(1) Have one or more inflation chambers;
(2) Have at least one oral means of inflation on each inflation chamber;
(3) Have at least one automatic inflation mechanism that inflates at least one chamber, if marked as providing Type I or II performance;
(4) Be constructed so that the intended method of donning is obvious to an untrained wearer;
(5) Not have a channel that can direct water to the wearer’s face to any greater extent than that of the reference vest defined in § 160.077-3(j).
(6) Have a retainer for each adjustable closure to prevent any part of the closure from being easily removed from the PFD;
(7) If marked as universally sized for wearers weighing over 40 kg (90 pounds), have a chest size range of at least 76 to 120 cm (30 to 52 in.);
(8) Not have means of access to any inherently buoyant inserts;
(9) Not have edges, projections, or corners, either external or internal, that are sufficiently sharp to damage the PFD or cause injury to anyone using or maintaining the PFD;
(10) Be of first quality workmanship;
(11) Unless otherwise allowed by the approval certificate—
(i) Not incorporate means obviously intended for attaching the PFD to the vessel; and
(ii) Not have any instructions indicating that attachment is intended;
(12) Except as otherwise required by this section, meet UL Standard 1517, sections 6.14, 6.20, 7.1, 7.3, 7.8, 8.4, and 9; and
(13) Provide the minimum buoyancies specified in Table 160.077-15(b)(13).
Table 160.077-15(
| Adult | Youth | Small child | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inherent buoyancy (deflated condition): | |||
| Type II | 45 N (10 lb) | 40 N (9 lb) | 30 N (7 lb) |
| Type III | 45 N (10 lb) | 40 N (9 lb) | N/A |
| Type V | 33 N (7.5 lb) | 34 N (7.5 lb) | N/A |
| Total buoyancy (inflated condition): | |||
| Type II | 100 N (22 lb) | 67 N (15 lb) | 53 N (12 lb) |
| Type III | 100 N (22 lb) | 67 N (15 lb) | N/A |
| Type V | 100 N (22 lb) | 67 N (15 lb) | N/A |
(14) Meet any additional requirements that the Commandant may prescribe, if necessary, to approve unique or novel designs.
(c) Inflation mechanism. (1) Each inflation mechanism on a recreational hybrid PFD must—
(i) Not require tools to activate it or replace its inflation medium cartridge or water sensitive element;
(ii) Have an intended method of operation that is obvious to an untrained wearer; and
(iii) Be located outside of its inflation chamber.
(2) Each oral inflation mechanism must—
(i) Be designed to operate without pulling on the mechanism;
(ii) Not be capable of locking in the open or closed position except that, a friction-fit dust cap that only locks in the closed position may be used; and
(iii) Have a non-toxic mouthpiece.
(3) Each automatic and manual inflation mechanism must—
(i) Have a simple method for replacing the inflation medium cartridge; and
(ii) Be in a ready-to-use condition or be conspicuously marked to indicate that the inflation mechanism is not in a ready-to-use condition and that the purchaser must assemble it.
(4) Each manual inflation mechanism must—
(i) Provide an easy means of inflation that requires only one deliberate action on the part of the wearer to actuate it; and
(ii) Be operated by pulling on an inflation handle that is marked “Jerk to Inflate” at two visible locations.
(5) Each automatic inflation mechanism must—
(i) Have an obvious method for indicating whether the mechanism has been activated; and
(ii) Be incapable of assembly without its water sensitive element.
(6) The marking required for the inflation handle of a manual inflation mechanism must be waterproof, permanent, and readable from a distance of 2.5 m (8 ft.).
(d) Deflation mechanism. (1) Each inflation chamber must have its own deflation mechanism.
(2) Each deflation mechanism must—
(i) Be readily accessible to either hand when the PFD is worn while inflated;
(ii) Not require tools to operate it;
(iii) Have an intended method of operation that is obvious to an untrained wearer, and
(iv) Not be able to be locked in the open or closed position.
(3) The deflation mechanism may be the oral inflation mechanism.
(e) Sewn seams. Stitching used in each structural seam of a PFD must provide performance equal to or better than a Class 300 Lockstitch meeting Federal Standard No. 751.
§ 160.077-17 Construction and Performance—Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.
(a) General. Each commercial hybrid PFD must meet—
(1) Paragraph (b) of this section; and
(2) Section 160.077-15, except § 160.077-15(a)(2)(iii) and § 160.077-15(c)(1)(i).
(b) Additional requirements. Each commercial hybrid PFD must—
(1) Be able to pass the tests in § 160.077-21;
(2) Not present a snag hazard when properly worn;
(3) When worn inflated, have a visible external surface area of at least 1300 sq. cm (200 sq. in.) in front and 450 sq. cm (70 sq. in.) in back that are primarily vivid reddish orange as defined by sections 13 and 14 of the “Color Names Dictionary”;
(4) Have at least one inflation chamber, except that a hybrid PFD approved as a SOLAS lifejacket must have at least two inflation chambers;
(5) Have at least one manual inflation mechanism.
(6) Have at least one automatic inflation mechanism that inflates at least one chamber; and
(7) Not require second stage donning after inflation.
(8) If approved for adults, be universally sized as specified in § 160.077-15(b)(7).
(9) Commercial hybrid PFDs employing closures with less than 1600 N (360 lb) strength, must have at least two closures that meet UL 1517, Section 22.1.
(10) Each commercial hybrid PFD must have an attachment for a PFD light securely fastened to the front shoulder area. The location should be such that if the light is attached it will not damage or impair the performance of the PFD.
(11) In the deflated and the inflated condition, provide buoyancies of at least the values in Table 160.077-17(b)(11).
Table 160.077-17(
| Adult | Youth | Small child | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inherent buoyancy (deflated condition): | |||
| Type I | 70 N (15.5 lb) | 50 N (11 lb) | 40 N (9 lb) |
| Type V | 60 N (13 lb) | 34 N (7.5 lb) | N/A |
| Total buoyancy (inflated condition): | |||
| Type I | 130 N (30 lb) | 80 N (18 lb) | 67 N (15 lb) |
| Type V | 100 N (22 lb) | 67 N (15 lb) | N/A |
§ 160.077-19 Approval Testing—Recreational Hybrid PFD’s.
(a) General. (1) This section contains approval tests and examinations for recreational hybrid PFD’s. Each test and examination must be conducted or supervised by an independent laboratory. The tests must be done using PFD’s that have been constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications in the application for approval. In each test only one PFD is required to be tested unless otherwise specified or needed to complete the tests in paragraph (d) of this section.
(2) All data relating to buoyancy and pressure must be taken at, or corrected to, standard atmospheric pressure of 760 mm (29.92 inches) of mercury and temperature of 20 °C (68 °F).
(3) The tests in paragraph (b) of this section must be completed before doing the tests in paragraph (d) of this section.
(4) In each test that specifies inflation by an automatic inflation mechanism and either or both of the other mechanisms, the automatic inflation mechanism must be tested first.
(5) Some tests in this section require PFD’s to be tested while being worn. The number and characteristics of the test subjects must be as prescribed in section 11 of UL 1517.
(b) Tests. Each PFD design must be tested according to the procedures in the following tests and meet the requirements in those tests:
(1) Donning and Operability, UL 1517, section 12.
(2) Jump Test, UL 1517, section 13.
(3) Flotation Stability and Inflation.
(i) Uninflated Flotation Stability, UL 1517, section 14.
If the freeboard of a test subject is close to zero, caution must be taken to prevent the subject from inhaling water. The subject may use lightweight breathing aids to avoid inhaling water.
(ii) Inflation, UL 1517, section 14.3 through 14.5 using a PFD with each automatic inflation mechanism disabled.
(iii) Inflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section 15, for Type II and Type III performance except comparisons are to be made to the appropriate size and Type reference vest as defined in § 160.077-2(j).
(4) Water Emergence, UL 1517, section 16.
(5) Operation Force Test, UL 1517, section 17.
(6) Buoyancy, buoyancy distribution, and inflation medium retention test, UL 1517, sections 18 and 19, except:
(i) Recreational hybrid inflatables must provide minimum buoyancy as specified in Table 160.077-15(b)(13):
(ii) The buoyancy and volume displacement of kapok buoyant inserts must be tested in accordance with the procedures prescribed in § 160.047-4(c)(4) and § 160.047-5(e)(1) in lieu of the procedures in UL 1517, section 18 and 19.
(7) Inflation Chamber Tests.
(i) Over-pressure Test, UL 1517, section 28.
(ii) Air Retention Test, UL 1517, section 29.
(8) Temperature Cycling Tests, UL 1517, section 23.
(9) Solvent Exposure Test, UL 1517, section 24.
(10) Environmental Tests, UL 1517, section 31.1.
(i) Humidity Exposure, UL 1517, section 31.4.
(ii) Rain Exposure, UL 1517, section 31.2 and 31.3.
(11) Abrasion/Compression Test, UL 1517, section 26.
(12) Water Entrapment Test, UL 1517, section 20.
(13) Tensile Tests, UL 1517, section 22.
(14) Strength of Attachment of Inflation Mechanism, UL 1517, section 30.
(15) Flame Exposure Test, UL 1517, section 25.
(16) Impact Test, UL 1517, section 21.
(17) Seam Strength Test, UL 1517, section 33.
(18) Puncture Test, UL 1517, section 27.
(c) Visual Examination. One complete PFD must be visually examined for compliance with the requirements of § 160.077-15.
(d) Inflation Chamber Properties—(1) General. The tests in this paragraph must be run if the tests in paragraph (b) of this section are successfully completed. The results of these tests will be used to check the quality of incoming PFD components and the production process. Test samples must come from one of more PFD’s that were each used in all of the tests in paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(6), (b)(7), (b)(16), and (b)(18) of this section.
(2) Grab breaking strength. Grab breaking strength of chamber materials must be determined according to Method No. 5100 of Federal Test Method Standard 191, or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.077-5).
(3) Tear strength. Tear strength of chamber materials must be determined according to Method No. 5132 or 5134 of Federal Test Method Standard 191, or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.077-5).
(4) Permeability. The permeability of chamber materials must be determined according to ASTM D 1434 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.077-5) using CO
(5) Seam strength. The seam strength of the seams in each inflation chamber of at least one PFD must be determined according to ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.077-5), except that 25 mm by 200 mm (1 in. by 8 in.) samples may be used where insufficient length of straight seam is available.
(e) The Commandant may prescribe additional tests, if necessary, to approve unique or novel designs.
§ 160.077-21 Approval Testing—Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.
(a) General. This section contains commercial hybrid PFD approval tests. The provisions of § 160.077-19(a) apply to each test in this section.
(b) Tests. Each test prescribed in § 160.077-19(b), except the tests in paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(3)(i), (b)(3)(ii), and (b)(6), must be conducted and passed.
(c) Additional tests. Each PFD design must also be tested according to the procedures in the following tests and meet the requirements in these tests:
(1) Jump test, UL 1517, section S6 for Adult size. Youth and Small Child sizes are exempt from this test.
(2) In-water removal, UL 1517, section S9 for Adult and Youth sizes. The Small Child size is exempt from this test.
(3) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention test, UL 1517, Section S10, except the minimum buoyancies must be as specified in the Table 160.077-17(b)(11):
(4) Flotation stability.
(i) Uninflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section S7, except that for Type I devices the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all subjects regardless of their in-water weight. For Type V adult-size devices the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all adult subjects having an in-water weight of 13 lb or less, and the requirements of paragraph S7.1.B apply to all other adult subjects.
—If the freeboard of a test subject is close to zero, caution must be taken to prevent the subject from inhaling water. The subject may use lightweight breathing aids to avoid inhaling water.
(ii) Righting action test, 46 CFR 160.176-13(d)(2) through (d)(5) for Type I hybrid PFDs. UL 1517, Section S8, for Type V hybrid PFDs.
(5) Flotation stability—youths and small children.
(i) Uninflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section S7, except that the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all subjects regardless of their in-water weight.
(ii) Righting action test, UL 1517, Section 15.3 through 15.13, for Youth and Small Child hybrid PFDs except comparisons are to be made to the appropriate size and type reference vest as defined in § 160.077-2(j).
(d) Flotation Stability Criteria. At the end of the righting action test—
(1) At least 75% of the PFD’s retroreflective material on the outside of the PFD, and the PFD light, must be above the water when the subject is floating in the stable flotation attitude; and
(2) The subject when floating in the stable flotation position and looking to the side, must be able to see—
(i) The water no more than 3 m (10 ft.) away; or
(ii) A mark on a vertical scale no higher than the lowest mark which can be viewed when floating in the same position in the reference vest defined in § 160.077-3(j).
(3) Each adult test subject must have a freeboard of at least:
(i) 100 mm (4 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a Type I hybrid PFD; or
(ii) 120 mm (4.75 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a SOLAS lifejacket.
(e) Visual Examination. One complete PFD must be visually examined for compliance with the requirements of § 160.077-15 and § 160.077-17.
(f) Inflation Chamber Properties. If the tests in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section are completed successfully, the tests in § 160.077-19(d) must be run.
(g) The Commandant may prescribe additional tests, if necessary, to approve unique or novel designs.
§ 160.077-23 Production tests and inspections.
(a) General. (1) Production tests and inspections must be conducted in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
(2) The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections if needed to maintain quality control and check for compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Test and Inspection Responsibilities. In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter, each manufacturer of a hybrid PFD and each independent laboratory inspector must comply with the following, as applicable:
(1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must—(i) Perform all required tests and examinations on each PFD lot before the independent laboratory inspector tests and inspects the lot, except as provided in § 160.077-23(d)(5);
(ii) Perform required testing of each incoming lot of inflation chamber material before using that lot in production;
(iii) Have procedures for maintaining quality control of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product;
(iv) Have a continuing program of employee training and a program for maintaining production and test equipment;
(v) Have an inspector from the independent laboratory observe the production methods used in producing the first PFD lot produced and observe any revisions made thereafter in production methods;
(vi) Admit the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to any place in the factory where work is done on hybrid PFD’s or component materials, and where completed PFD’s are stored; and
(vii) Allow the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to take samples of completed PFD’s or of component materials for tests prescribed in this subpart.
(2) Independent Laboratory. (i) An inspector may not perform or supervise any production test or inspection unless—
(A) The manufacturer has a current approval certificate; and
(B) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer’s production methods and any revisions to those methods.
(ii) Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, an inspector must perform or supervise testing and inspection of at least one PFD lot in each five lots produced.
(iii) During each inspection, the inspector must check for noncompliance with the manufacturer’s quality control procedures.
(iv) Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, at least once each calendar quarter, the inspector must, as a check on the manufacturer’s compliance with this section, examine the manufacturer’s records required by § 160.077-25 and observe the manufacturer perform each of the tests required by paragraph (h) of this section.
(v) If less than six lots are produced during any calendar year, only one lot inspection in accordance with paragraph (b)(2)(ii) of this section, and one records examination and test performance observation in accordance with paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section is required during that year. Each lot tested and inspected must be within seven lots of the previous lot inspected.
(c) PFD Lots. A lot number must be assigned to each group of PFD’s produced. No lot may exceed 1000 PFD’s. A new lot must be started whenever any change in materials or a production method is made, or whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. Changes in lots of component materials must be treated as changes in materials. Lots must be numbered serially. The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the PFD manufacturer, by referring to the records required by this subpart, to determine who produced the components used in the PFD.
(d) Samples. (1) Samples used in testing and inspections must be selected at random. Sampling must be done only when all PFD’s or materials in the lot are available for selection.
(2) Each sample PFD selected must be complete, unless otherwise specified in paragraph (h) of this section.
(3) Each adult test subject must have a freeboard of at least:
(i) 100 mm (4 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a Type I hybrid PFD; or
(ii) 120 mm (4.75 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a SOLAS lifejacket.
(4) The number of samples selected per lot must be at least the number listed in Table 160.077-23A or Table 160.077-23B, as applicable, except as allowed in paragraph (d)(5) of this section.
(5) If the total production for any five consecutive lots does not exceed 250 devices, the manufacturer’s and inspector’s tests can be run on the same sample(s) at the same time.
Table 160.077-23A—Manufacturer’s Sampling
| Number of samples per lot | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lot size | ||||||
| 1-100 | 101-200 | 201-300 | 301-500 | 501-750 | 751-1000 | |
| Tests: | ||||||
| Inflation chamber materials | ||||||
| See note 1 | ||||||
| Seam strength | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Over-pressure(2), (3) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Air retention | ||||||
| Every device in the lot | ||||||
| Buoyancy and inflation media retention | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Tensile strength(4) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Detailed product examination | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Retest sample size(2) | 13 | 13 | 20 | 20 | ||
| Final lot examination | ||||||
| Every device in the lot | ||||||
(1) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. The tests referenced in § 160.077-19(d)(2) through § 160.077-19(d)(4) prescribe the number of samples to select.
(2) Samples selected for this test may not be the same samples selected for other tests.
(3) If any sample fails this test, the number of samples to be tested in the next lot produced must be at least 2% of the total number of PFD’s in the lot or 10 PFD’s, whichever is greater.
(4) This test is required only when a new lot of materials is used and when a revised production process is used. However, the test must be run at least once every calendar quarter regardless of whether a new lot of materials or revised process is started in that quarter.
Table 160.077-23B—Inspector’s Sampling
| Number of samples per lot | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lot size | ||||||
| 1-100 | 101-200 | 201-300 | 301-500 | 501-750 | 751-1000 | |
| Tests: | ||||||
| Over-pressure 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Air retention | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Buoyancy and inflation media retention | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Tensile strength 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Waterproof marking | ||||||
| See note 3 for sampling | ||||||
| Detailed product examination | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Retest sample size 1 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 20 | 20 |
| Final Lot Inspection | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 27 | 30 |
(1) Samples selected for this test may not be the same PFD’s selected for other tests.
(2) This test may be omitted if the manufacturer has previously conducted it and the inspector has conducted the test on a previous lot within the past year.
(3) One sample of each means of marking on each type of fabric or finish used in PFD construction must be tested whenever a new lot of materials is used or at least every six months regardless of whether a new lot of materials was used within the past six months.
(e) Accept/Reject Criteria: Manufacturer Testing. (1) A PFD lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
(2) In lots of 200 or less PFD’s the lot must be rejected if any sample fails one or more tests.
(3) In lots of more than 200 PFD’s, the lost must be rejected if—
(i) One sample fails more than one test;
(ii) More than one sample fails; or
(iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.077-23A, one or more samples fail the test.
(4) A rejected PFD lot may be retested only if allowed under paragraph (k) of this section.
(5) In testing inflation chamber materials, a lot is accepted only if the average of the results of testing the minimum number of samples prescribed in the reference tests in § 160.077-19(d) is within the tolerances specified in § 160.077-11(d)(1). Any lot that is rejected may not be used in production.
(f) Accept/Reject Criteria: Independent Laboratory Testing. (1) A lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
(2) A lot must be rejected if—
(i) One sample fails more than one test;
(ii) More than one sample fails; or
(iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.077-23B, one or more samples fail the test.
(3) A rejected lot may be retested only if allowed under paragraph (k) of this section.
(g) Facilities and Equipment—(1) General. The manufacturer must provide the test equipment and facilities described in this section for performing production tests, examinations, and inspections.
(2) Calibration. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked at least annually by a weights and measures agency or the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
(3) Equipment. The following equipment is required:
(i) A Sample Basket for buoyancy tests. It must be made of wire mesh and be of sufficient size and durability to hold a complete inflated PFD. The basket must be heavy enough or be sufficiently weighted to become submerged when holding a test sample.
(ii) A Tank Filled with Fresh Water for buoyancy tests. The height of the tank must be sufficient to allow a water depth of at least 5 cm (2 inches) from the water surface to the top of the basket when the basket is not touching the bottom. The length and width of the tank must be sufficient to prevent each submerged basket from contacting another basket or the tank sides and bottom. Means for locking or sealing the tank must be provided to prevent disturbance of any samples or a change in water level during testing.
(iii) A Scale that has sufficient capacity to weigh a submerged sample basket. The scale must be sensitive to 14 g (0.5 oz) and must not have an error exceeding ±14 g (0.5 oz).
(iv) Tensile Test Equipment that is suitable for applying pulling force in conducting body strap assembly strength subtests. The equipment assembly may be (A) a known weight and winch, (B) a scale, winch, and fixed anchor, or (C) a tensile test machine that is capable of holding a given tension. The assembly must provide accuracy to maintain a pulling force within ±2 percent of specified force. Additionally, if the closed loop test method is used, two cylinders of the type described in that method must be provided.
(v) A Thermometer that is sensitive to 0.5 °C (1 °F) and does not have an error exceeding ±0.25 °C (0.5 °F).
(vi) A Barometer that is capable of reading mm (inches) of mercury with a sensitivity of 1 mm (0.05 in.) Hg and an error not exceeding ±0.05 mm (0.02 in.) Hg.
(vii) A Regulated Air Supply that is capable of supplying the air necessary to conduct the tests specified in paragraphs (h)(4) and (h)(5) of this section.
(viii) A Pressure Gauge that is capable of measuring air pressure with a sensitivity of 1 kPa (0.1 psig) and an error not exceeding ±0.5 kPa (0.05 psig).
(ix) A Torque Wrench if any screw fasteners are used. The wrench must be sensitive to, and have an error of less than, one-half the specified tolerance for the torque values of the fasteners.
(x) Inflation chamber materials test equipment. If the required tests in paragraph (h)(2) of this section are performed by the PFD manufacturer, test equipment suitable for conducting Grab Breaking Strength, Tear Strength, Permeability, and Seam Strength tests must be available at the PFD manufacturer’s facility.
(4) Facilities. The manufacturer must provide a suitable place and the necessary apparatus for the inspector to use in conducting or supervising tests. For the final lot inspection, the manufacturer must provide a suitable working environment and a smooth-top table for the inspector’s use.
(h) Production Tests and Examinations—(1) General. (i) Samples used in testing must be selected according to paragraph (d) of this section.
(ii) On the samples selected for testing—
(A) The manufacturer must conduct the tests in paragraph (h)(2) through (h)(8) of this section; and
(B) The independent laboratory inspector must conduct or supervise the tests in paragraph (h)(4) through (h)(9) of this section.
(iii) Each individual test result must, in addition to meeting the requirements in this paragraph, comply with the requirements, if any, set out in the approved plans and specifications.
(2) Inflation Chamber Materials. Each sample must be tested according to § 160.077-19(d)(1) through § 160.077-19(d)(4). The average and individual results of testing the minimum number of samples prescribed in § 160.077-19(d) must comply with the requirements in § 160.077-11(d)(1).
(3) Seam Strength. The seams in each inflation chamber of each sample must be tested according to §§ 160.077-19(d)(1) and 160.077-19(d)(5). The results for each inflation chamber must be at least 90% of the results obtained in approval testing.
(4) Over-pressure. Each sample must be tested according to and meet UL 1517, section 28. Test samples may be prestressed by inflating them to a greater pressure than the required test pressure prior to initiating the test at the specified values.
(5) Air Retention. Each sample must be tested according to and meet UL 1517, section 36. Prior to initiating the test at the specified values, test samples may be prestressed by inflating to a pressure greater than the design pressure, but not exceeding 50 percent of the required pressure for the tests in paragraph (h)(4) of this section. Any alternate test method that decreases the length of the test must be accepted by the Commandant and must require a proportionately lower allowable pressure loss and the same percentage sensitivity and accuracy as the standard allowable loss measured with the standard instrumentation.
(6) Buoyancy and Inflation Medium Retention. Each sample must be tested according to and meet § 160.077-19(b)(6), except that the UL 1517 section 19 test is not required unless specified on the approved plans and specifications. In addition to meeting the minimum values required by § 160.077-19(b)(6), each buoyancy value must fall within the tolerances specified in the approved plans and specifications.
(7) Tensile Strength. Each sample must be tested according to and meet UL 1517, section 22.
(8) Detailed Product Examination. Each sample must be disassembled to the extent necessary to determine compliance with the following:
(i) All dimensions and seam allowances must be within tolerances prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
(ii) The torque of each screw type mechanical fastener must be within its tolerance as prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
(iii) The arrangement, markings, and workmanship must be as specified on the approved plans and specifications and this subpart.
(iv) The PFD must not otherwise be defective.
(9) Waterproof Marking Test. Each sample is completely submerged in fresh water for at least 30 min. and then removed and immediately placed on a hard surface. The markings are vigorously rubbed with the fingers for 15 seconds. If the printing becomes illegible, the sample is rejected.
(i) [Reserved]
(j) Final Lot Examination and Inspection—(1) General. On each PFD lot that passes production testing, the manufacturer must perform a final lot examination and an independent laboratory inspector must perform a final lot inspection. Samples must be selected according to paragraph (d) of this section. Each final lot examination and inspection must show—
(i) First quality workmanship;
(ii) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components such as body straps, closures, inflation mechanisms, tie tapes, drawstrings, etc. are as specified in the approved plans and specifications; and
(iii) Compliance with the marking requirements in § 160.077-31.
(2) Accept/Reject Criteria. Each nonconforming PFD must be rejected. If three or more nonconforming PFD’s are rejected for the same kind of defect, lot examination or inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected.
(3) Manufacturer Examination. This examination must be done by a manufacturer’s representative who is familiar with the approved plans and specifications, the functioning of the PFD and its components, and the production testing procedures. This person must not be responsible for meeting production schedules or be supervised by someone who is. This person must prepare and sign the inspection record required by § 159.077-13 of this chapter and § 160.077-25(b).
(4) Independent Laboratory Inspection. (i) The inspector must discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if observation of the records for the lot or of individual PFD’s shows noncompliance with this section or the manufacturer’s quality control procedures.
(ii) An inspector may not perform a final lot inspection unless the manufacturer has a current approval certificate.
(iii) If the inspector rejects a lot, the inspector shall notify the Commandant immediately.
(iv) The inspector must prepare and sign the record required by § 159.077-13 of this chapter and § 160.077-25(b). If the lot passes, the record must also include the inspector’s certification to that effect and a certification that no evidence of noncompliance with this section was observed.
(k) Disposition of PFD’s Rejected in Testing or Inspections. (1) A rejected PFD lot may be resubmitted for testing, examination, or inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each PFD having the same type of defect or, if authorized by the Commandant or an authorized representative of the Commandant, reworks the lot to correct the defect.
(2) Any PFD rejected in a final lot examination or inspection may be resubmitted for examination or inspection if all defects have been corrected and reexamination or reinspection is authorized by the Commandant or an authorized representative of the Commandant.
(3) A rejected lot or rejected PFD may not be sold or offered for sale with the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is Coast Guard approved.
§ 160.077-25 Manufacturer records.
(a) Each manufacturer of hybrid PFD’s must keep the records required by § 159.007-13 of this chapter, except that they must be retained at least 120 months after the month in which the inspection or test was conducted.
(b) Each record required by § 159.007-13 of this chapter must also include the following information:
(1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if there is more than one available.
(2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples used, the lot number, the approval number, and the number of PFD’s in the lot.
(3) For each lot rejected, the cause for rejection, any corrective action taken, and the final disposition of the lot.
(c) The description or photographs of procedures and apparatus used in testing is not required for the records prescribed in § 159.077-13 of this chapter as long as the manufacturer’s procedures and apparatus meet the requirements of this subpart.
(d) Each manufacturer of hybrid PFD’s must also keep the following records:
(1) Records for all materials used in production including the following:
(i) Name and address of the supplier.
(ii) Date of purchase and receipt.
(iii) Lot number.
(iv) Certification meeting § 160.077-11(a)(4).
(2) A copy of this subpart.
(3) Each document incorporated by reference in § 160.077-9.
(4) A copy of the approved plans and specifications.
(5) The approval certificate.
(6) Calibration of test equipment, including the identity of the agency performing the calibration, date of calibration, and results.
(e) The records required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section must be kept for at least 120 months after preparation. All other records required by paragraph (d) of this section must be kept for at least 60 months.
§ 160.077-27 Pamphlet.
(a) Each recreational hybrid PFD sold or offered for sale must be provided with a pamphlet that a prospective purchaser can read prior to purchase. The required pamphlet text must be printed verbatim and in the sequence set out in paragraph (e) of this section. Additional information, instructions, or illustrations must not be included within the required text. The type size shall be no smaller than 8-point.
(b) Each pamphlet must be prominently marked “Seller, do not remove pamphlet.”
(c) No person may sell or offer for sale any recreational hybrid PFD unless the pamphlet required by this section is provided with it.
(d) The text specified in paragraphs (e)(2) of this section must be accompanied by illustrations of the types of devices being described. The illustrations provided must be either photographs or drawings of the manufacturer’s own products or illustrations of other Coast Guard-approved PFDs.
(e) For a Type I hybrid PFD intended for recreational use or a Type II, III, or V recreational hybrid PFD, the pamphlet contents must be as follows:
(1) The text in UL 1517, Section 39, item A;
(2) The following text and illustrations:
This is a Type [insert approved Type] Hybrid Inflatable PFD.
The following types of PFDs are designed to perform as described in calm water and when the wearer is not wearing any other flotation material (such as a wetsuit).
Type I—A Type I PFD has the greatest required inherent buoyancy and turns most unconscious persons in the water from a face down position to a vertical and slightly backward position, therefore greatly increasing one’s chances of survival. The Type I PFD is suitable for all waters, especially for cruising on waters where rescue may be slow coming, such as large bodies of water where it is not likely that boats will be nearby. This type PFD is the most effective of all types in rough water. It is reversible and available in only two sizes—Adult (over 40 kg (90 lb)) and child (less than 40 kg (90 lb)) which are universal sizes (designed for all persons in the appropriate category).
Type II—A Type II PFD turns most wearers to a vertical and slightly backward position in the water. The turning action of a Type II PFD is less noticeable than the turning action of a Type I PFD and the Type II PFD will not turn as many persons under the same conditions as the Type I. The Type II PFD is usually more comfortable to wear than the Type I. This type of PFD is designed to fit a wide range of people for easy emergency use, and is available in the following sizes: Adult (over 40 kg (90 lb)), Medium Child (23-40 kg (50-90 lb)), and two categories of Small Child (less than 23 kg (50 lb) or less than 14 kg (30 lb). Additionally, some models are sized by chest sizes. You may prefer to use the Type II where there is a good chance of fast rescue, such as areas where it is common for other persons to be engaged in boating, fishing and other water activities.
Type III—The Type III PFD allows the wearer to tilt backwards in the water, and the device will maintain the wearer in that position and will not turn the wearer face down. It is not designed to turn the wearer face up. A Type III is generally more comfortable than a Type II, comes in a variety of styles which should be matched to the individual use, and is often the best choice for water sports, such as skiing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. This type PFD normally comes in many chest sizes and weight ranges; however, some universal sizes are available. You may also prefer to use the Type III where there is a probability of quick rescue such as areas where it is common for other persons to be engaged in boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Hybrid Inflatable Type I, II, or III—A Type I, II, or III Hybrid PFD is an inflatable device which is the most comfortable PFD to wear and has a minimal amount of buoyancy when deflated and significantly increased buoyancy when inflated (See accompanying table for actual buoyancy for your Type of hybrid). When inflated it turns the wearer with the action of a Type I, II, or III PFD as indicated on its label. Boaters taking advantage of the extra comfort of hybrid inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the use of these devices. Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the water, under safe, controlled conditions to know how well the devices float them with limited buoyancy. Approximately 90 percent of boaters will float while wearing a Type II or III hybrid inflatable PFD when it is not inflated. However, hybrid inflatable PFDs are not recommended for non-swimmers unless worn with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. Almost all boaters will float while wearing a Type I hybrid inflatable PFD that is not inflated. The PFD’s ‘performance type’ indicates whether it should be used only where help is nearby, or if it also may be used where help may be slow coming. Type I hybrids are suitable where rescue may be slow coming, while Types II and III are good only when there is a chance of fast rescue. Type I hybrids are approved in three weight ranges, adult, for persons weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); youth, for persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb); and small child, for persons weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb). Type II hybrid PFDs are approved in the same size ranges as Type I hybrids but may be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes. Type III hybrids are only approved in adult and youth sizes but may also be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes.
Type IV—A Type IV PFD is normally thrown or tossed to a person who has fallen overboard so that the person can grasp and hold the device until rescued. Until May 15, 1995 (or May 1, 1996 at commercial liveries), the Type IV is acceptable in place of a wearable device in certain instances. However, this type is suitable only where there is a good chance of quick rescue, such as areas where it is common for other persons to be nearby engaged in boating, fishing, and other water activities. It is not recommended for use by non-swimmers and children.
Type V (General)—A Type V PFD is a PFD approved for restricted uses or activities such as boardsailing, or commercial white water rafting. These PFDs are not suitable for other boating activities. The label on the PFD indicates the kinds of activities for which the PFD may be used and whether there are limitations on how it may be used.
Type V Hybrid—A Type V Hybrid PFD is an inflatable device which can be the most comfortable and has very little buoyancy when it is not inflated, and considerably more buoyancy when it is inflated. In order for the device to count toward carriage requirements on recreational boats, it must be worn except when the boat is not underway or when the user is below deck. When inflated it turns the wearer similar to the action provided by a Type I, II, or III PFD (the type of performance is indicated on the label). This type of PFD is more comfortable because it is less bulky when it is not inflated. Boaters taking advantage of the extra comfort of hybrid inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the use of these devices. Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the water, under safe, controlled conditions to know how well the devices float them with limited buoyancy. Approximately 70 percent of boaters will float while wearing a Type V hybrid PFD when the device is not inflated. Therefore, it is not recommended for non-swimmers unless worn with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. The PFD’s “performance type” indicates whether it should be used only where help is nearby, or if it may also be used where help may be slow coming. This type of PFD is approved in two sizes, adult, for persons weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); and youth, for persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb), and may be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes.
(3) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values from Table 160.077-15(b)(13) or 160.077-17(b)(11), as applicable; and
(4) The text in UL 1517, Section 39, items D, E, and F.
§ 160.077-29 PFD Manuals.
(a) Approval. The text of each manual required by this section is reviewed with the application for approval. Changes may be required if needed to comply with this section.
(b) Required Manuals. An owner’s manual must be provided with each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD sold or offered for sale as follows:
(1) The manual text for a recreational hybrid PFD must be printed verbatim and in the sequence set out in paragraph (c) or (d) of this section, as applicable.
(2) The manual for a commercial hybrid PFD must meet the requirements of paragraph (f) of this section except that the manual for a commercial Type I PFD which is also labeled for recreational use must meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Additional information, instructions, or illustrations may be included within the specified text of the manuals required by this section if there is no contradiction to the required information.
(c) Type I, II or III Hybrid PFD. For a Type I, II and III hybrid PFD the manual contents must be as follows:
(1) The following text:
This PFD has limited inherent buoyancy which means YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT, and its inflatable portion requires maintenance. While these PFDs are not required to be worn, if you have an accident or fall overboard, you are much more likely to survive if you are already wearing a PFD.
There is only one way to find out if you will float while wearing the PFD when it is not inflated. That is to try this PFD in the water as explained in [insert reference to the section of the manual that discusses how to test the PFD]. If you have not tested this device in accordance with these guidelines, the Coast Guard does not recommend its use.
(2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice operation;
(3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;
(4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired;
(5) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items B and D;
(6) The following text:
A PFD provides buoyancy to help keep your head above water and to help you stay face up. The average in-water-weight of an adult is only about 5 to 10 pounds. The buoyancy provided by most PFDs will support that weight in water. However, the hybrid Type I, II, or III PFD may be an exception. The uninflated buoyancy provided by this PFD may only float 90 percent of the boating public. This is because the inherent buoyancy has been reduced to make it more comfortable to wear. So, you may not float adequately without inflating the device. Once the device is inflated you will have a minimum of 22 lb of buoyancy for adult sizes, which should be more than enough to float everyone. (See table above [below] for the actual minimum buoyancy for different Types of hybrids.) Your body weight alone does not determine your in-water-weight. Since there is no simple method of determining your weight in water, you should try the device in the water in both its deflated and inflated condition.
(7) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item G;
(8) The following text:
Your PFD won’t help you if you don’t have it on. It is well-known that most boating accidents occur on calm water during a clear sunny day. It is also true that in approximately 80 percent of all boating accident fatalities, the victim did not use a PFD. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Non-swimmers and children especially should wear their PFD at all times when on or near the water. Hybrid Type I, II, III or V PFDs are not recommended for non-swimmers unless inflated enough to float the wearer.
(9) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items I, J, K, and L; and
(10) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values from Table 160.077-15(b)(13) or 160.077-17(b)(11), as applicable, or provide a reference to appropriate pamphlet table, if the pamphlet is combined with the manual.
(d) Type V Recreational Hybrid PFD. For a Type V recreational hybrid PFD the manual contents must be as follows:
(1) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item A;
(2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice operation;
(3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;
(4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired; and
(5) The text in UL 1517, section 40, that is not included under paragraph (d)(1) of this section.
(e) Commercial Hybrid PFD. (1) For a commercial hybrid PFD that is “REQUIRED TO BE WORN” the manual must meet the requirements of paragraph (d) of this section.
(2) For a commercial hybrid PFD approved as a “Work Vest Only” or Type I PFD the manual must meet the requirements of either paragraphs (e) (3) and (4) or of paragraph (c) of this section. The manual for a commercial Type I hybrid PFD which is also labeled for use on recreational boats must meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) Each commercial hybrid PFD approved with special purpose limitation must have a user’s manual that—
(i) Explains in detail the proper care, maintenance, stowage, and use of the PFD; and
(ii) Includes any other safety information as prescribed by the approval certificate.
(4) If the manual required in paragraph (e)(3) of this section calls for inspection or service by vessel personnel, the manual must—
(i) Specify personnel training or qualifications needed;
(ii) Explain how to identify the PFDs that need to be inspected; and
(iii) Provide a log in which inspections and servicing may be recorded.
(5) If a PFD light approved under subpart 161.012 is not provided at time of sale, the manual must specify the recommended type of light to be used.
(6) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, manufacturers that make shipments to purchasers that do not redistribute the PFDs, must provide at least one manual in each carton of PFDs shipped.
§ 160.077-30 Spare operating components and temporary marking.
(a) Spare operating components. Each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD must—
(1) If it has a manual or automatic inflation mechanism and is packaged and sold with one inflation medium cartridge loaded into the inflation mechanism, have at least two additional spare inflation cartridges packaged with it. If it is sold without an inflation medium cartridge loaded into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and sold with at least three cartridges; and
(2) If it has an automatic inflation mechanism and is packaged and sold with one water sensitive element loaded into the inflation mechanism, have at least two additional spare water sensitive elements packaged with it. If it is sold without a water sensitive element loaded into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and sold with at least three water sensitive elements.
(b) Temporary marking. Each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD which is sold—
(1) In a ready-to-use condition but which has covers or restraints to inhibit tampering with the inflation mechanism prior to sale, must have any such covers or restraints conspicuously marked “REMOVE IMMEDIATELY AFTER PURCHASE.”; or
(2) Without an inflation medium cartridge, a water sensitive element, or both pre-loaded into the inflation mechanism, must include the markings required in § 160.077-15(c)(3)(ii).
§ 160.077-31 PFD Marking.
(a) General. Each hybrid PFD must be marked with the applicable information required by this section. Each marking must be waterproof, clear, permanent, and readable from a distance of three feet.
(b) Prominence. Each marking, other than the text in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, must be significantly less prominent and in smaller print than paragraph (c) and (d) text.
(c) Recreational Hybrid PFD. Each recreational hybrid PFD must be marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be presented in the exact order shown:
Recreational hybrid inflatable—Approved for use only on recreational boats. [For Type V only] REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast Guard carriage requirements (except for persons in enclosed spaces as explained in owner’s manual).
A Pamphlet and Owner’s Manual must be provided with this PFD.
(d) Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD. Each Type I hybrid PFD intended for recreational use and each commercial hybrid PFD must be marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be presented in the exact order shown:
Commercial hybrid inflatable—Approved for use on [see paragraph (j) of this section for exact text to be used here].
(e) All PFD’s. Each hybrid PFD must also be marked with the following information below the text required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this section:
(1) U.S. Coast Guard Approval Number (insert assigned approval number).
(2) Manufacturer’s or private labeler’s name and address.
(3) Lot Number.
(4) Date, or year and calendar quarter, of manufacture.
(5) Necessary vital care or use instructions, if any, such as the following:
(i) Warning against dry cleaning.
(ii) Size and type of inflation medium cartridges required.
(iii) Specific donning instructions.
(f) Identification of User. Each hybrid PFD must have adequate space within which to mark the name or other identification of the intended user.
(g) Flotation material buoyancy loss. When kapok flotation material is used, the statement “—REPLACE PFD IF PADS BECOME STIFF OR WATERLOGGED.” must follow the warning “—TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU WITHOUT INFLATION.” required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this section.
(h) Type equivalence. The exact text to be inserted for Type V hybrid PFDs will be one of the following type equivalents as noted on the Approval Certificate.
(i) [Reserved]
(j) Approved use. Unless the Commandant has authorized omitting the display of approved use, the exact text to be inserted will be one or more of the following statements as noted on the approval certificate:
(1) “all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels”
(2) “all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels. REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast Guard carriage requirements (except for persons in enclosed spaces as explained in owner’s manual)”
(3) “inspected commercial vessels as a WORK VEST only.”
(4) “[Insert exact text of special purpose or limitation and vessel(s) or vessel type(s), noted on approval certificate].”
(k) Size Ranges. The exact text to be inserted will be one of the following statements as noted on the approval certificate:
(1) ADULT—For persons weighing more than 40 kg (90 lb).
(2) YOUTH—For persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb).
(3) CHILD SMALL—For persons weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb).
(4) “[Other text noted on approval certificate].”
Subpart 160.115—Launching Appliances—Winches
§ 160.115-1 Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a winch used in conjunction with a davit approved under subpart 160.132 of this part for lifeboats approved under subpart 160.135 of this part, liferafts approved under subparts 160.051 or 160.151 of this part, and rescue boats approved under subparts 160.056 or 160.156 of this part.
§ 160.115-3 Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.115-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the following paragraph of this section.
(b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.115-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for § 160.115-7.
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.115-7, 160.115-13, and 160.115-15.
(4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for § 160.115-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.115-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
§ 160.115-7 Design, construction, and performance of winches.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a winch, a manufacturer must comply with, and each winch must meet, the requirements of the following—
(1) IMO LSA Code, chapter I/1.2.2 and chapter VI/6.1. (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to the design and intended service of the winch;
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/8.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to the winch;
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each winch must meet each of the following requirements:
(1) Materials. (i) All gears must be machine cut and made of steel, bronze, or other suitable materials properly keyed to shafts. The use of cast iron is not permitted for these parts.
(ii) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
(iii) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware, securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift.
(2) Bearings and gears. (i) Positive means of lubrication must be provided for all bearings.
(ii) When worm gears are used, the worm wheel must operate in an oil bath. Means to easily check the oil level in the gear case must be provided.
(iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart and a plate attached to the winch indicating the lubricant recommended for extremes in temperature.
(3) Guards. All moving parts must have suitable guards.
(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the winch is constructed or the national body’s designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests.
(5) Winch drums.
(i) Winch drums must either be grooved or otherwise designed to wind the falls evenly on and off each drum.
(ii) The diameter of the drums must be at least 16 times the diameter of the falls.
(iii) Drums must be so arranged as to keep the falls separate, and to pay out the falls at the same rate. Clutches between drums are not permitted unless bolted locking devices are used.
(6) Winch motors. For a winch powered by electric or hydraulic motors, or portable power units such as air or electric drills—
(i) Positive means must be provided for controlling the power to the winch, arranged so that the operator must hold the master switch or controller in the “on” or “hoist” position for hoisting, and when released, will immediately shut off the power;
(ii) A clutch must be fitted to disengage the power installation during the lowering operation;
(iii) A means must be provided to disconnect power to the winch before a hand crank can be engaged with the winch operating shaft, and this interruption of power must be maintained while the hand crank is so engaged;
(iv) The air or electric power outlet for a portable power unit must be located adjacent to the winch where the unit is to be coupled, and the outlet must be interconnected with, and protected by, the same system of safety devices as required for a winch with built-in-motors;
(v) A main line emergency disconnect switch, the opening of which disconnects all electrical potential to the winch, must be provided. This switch must be located in a position accessible to the person in charge of the boat stowage and must be in a position from which the movement of both davit arms can be observed as they approach the final stowed position;
(vi) Limit switches, one for each davit arm, must be provided to limit the travel of the davit arms as they approach the final stowed position. These switches must—
(A) Be so arranged that the opening of either switch will disconnect all electrical potential of the circuit in which the switches are connected;
(B) Be arranged to stop the travel of the davit arms not less than 0.3m (12 in) from their final stowed position; and
(C) Remain open until the davit arms move outboard beyond the tripping position of the switches;
(vii) Motor clutches, when used, must be of either frictional or positive engaging type. When one motor is used for two winches, the clutch must be so arranged that only one winch may be engaged at any one time. The clutch operating lever must be capable of remaining in any position when subject to vibration and must be so arranged that when in neutral position both lifeboats may be lowered simultaneously;
(viii) Motors, switches, controls, and cables must be waterproof if installed on an open deck. Controls may be of the drip-proof type if installed in a deck house or under deck;
(ix) Hydraulic systems must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30; and
(x) Electrical installations must comply with 46 CFR 111.01-9, 111.01-11, 111.01-19, 111.25, 111.55, 111.70, and 111.95.
(7) Quick return. For a winch used to launch an inflatable liferaft means must be provided for rapidly retrieving the falls by hand power.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.115-9 Preapproval review.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a winch, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit in triplicate—
(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision number, and issue date;
(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;
(3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
(4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart;
(5) A description of the quality control procedures and recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the winch, which must include, but is not limited to—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved winch complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the winch complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the winch will be constructed; and
(8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in § 160.115-15 of this subpart.
(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section; so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—
(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;
(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the winch meets the construction requirements of this subpart;
(3) Accurately depict the proposed winch;
(4) Be internally consistent;
(5) Be legible; and
(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory’s attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.
(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.
§ 160.115-11 [Reserved]
§ 160.115-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.115-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype winch and the approval inspections and tests required under this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on winches or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype—
(A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart;
(B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart; and
(C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified;
(ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of winches, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the winches in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests. (1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype winch of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraph 8.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to winches.
(2) Visual inspection. Each winch must be visually inspected to confirm—
(i) Compliance with this subpart;
(ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
(iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
(3) Hydraulic controls. If the winch motor includes a fluid power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
(4) Winch drum. Each winch designed without grooved drums must demonstrate during prototype testing that the falls wind evenly on and off each drum.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a winch similar in construction to a winch that has successfully completed the tests.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final version of the plans required under § 160.115-9 of this subpart in triplicate.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.
§ 160.115-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and conformance of winches.
(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of a winch must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Manufacturer’s responsibility. The manufacturer must—
(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production winches are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype winch approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer’s quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
(3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the following—
(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each winch constructed;
(ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and
(iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the winch, if known;
(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the winch are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.115-13(h) of this subpart;
(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the winch, work or testing is performed on winches or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, below, for the purpose of—
(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(ii) Witnessing tests; or
(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the winches are being made in accordance with the plans approved under § 160.115-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each winch. The records must include—
(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each document listed in § 160.115-5 of this subpart;
(2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved winch;
(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved winches, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the winches in which such materials were used;
(5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
(6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
(7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
(8) The serial number of each production winch, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
(9) The original purchaser of each winch and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.
(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under this section for each Coast Guard-approved winch to be installed on a U.S. flag vessel. If the manufacturer also produces winches for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
(e) Production inspections and tests. (1) Each approved winch must be inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and the brake test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 2, paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart).
(2) The lowering tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1 may be performed if the installation height is known. If these tests are performed, the results must be in accordance with 46 CFR 199.153(h) through (j).
§ 160.115-17 Marking and labeling.
(a) Each winch must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the winch.
(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.
(c) The plate or label must contain the—
(1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
(2) Manufacturer’s model identification;
(3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production tests;
(4) Serial number of the winch;
(5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
(6) Month and year of manufacture;
(7) Safe working load of the winch; and
(8) Word “SOLAS”.
§ 160.115-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship’s training manual.
(a) Each winch must have instructions and information for the ship’s training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the winch.
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
(c) The winch manufacturer must make operating instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a winch approved by the Coast Guard.
§ 160.115-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
(a) Each winch must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
(1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.115-5 of this subpart); and
(2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the winch.
(b) The winch manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a winch approved by the Coast Guard.
(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
§ 160.115-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.115-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production winch. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures in § 160.115-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype winch with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.115-9 through 160.115-13 of this subpart.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
Subpart 160.132—Launching Appliances—Davits
§ 160.132-1 Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a davit used in conjunction with a winch approved under subpart 160.115 of this part for lifeboats approved under subpart 160.135 of this part, liferafts approved under subparts 160.051 or 160.151 of this part, and rescue boats approved under subparts 160.056 or 160.156 of this part.
§ 160.132-3 Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.132-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.132-7 (“ASTM A 36”).
(2) ASTM A 216/A 216M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding, for High-Temperature Service, (approved November 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.132-7 (“ASTM A 216”).
(c) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.132-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(2) International Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.132-3 and 160.132-7.
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.132-7, 160.132-13, and 160.132-15.
(4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-Saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for § 160.132-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.132-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
§ 160.132-7 Design, construction, and performance of davits.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a davit, a manufacturer must comply with, and each davit must meet, the requirements of following—
(1) IMO LSA Code chapter I/1.2.2 and Chapter VI/6.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart) applicable to the design and intended service of the davit;
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1/8.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart) applicable to the design and intended service of the davit;
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each davit must meet the following requirements—
(1) Materials. Each major structural component of each davit must be constructed of steel. Other materials may be used if accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior—
(i) Structural steel made by the open-hearth or electric furnace process must be in accordance with ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart);
(ii) Steel castings not intended for fusion welding must be in accordance with ASTM A 36, Grades U-60-30, 60-30, 65-30, 65-35, and 70-36;
(iii) Steel castings intended to be fabricated by fusion welding must be in accordance with ASTM A 216 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart), Grades WCA and WCB;
(iv) Cast iron must not be used in the construction of a davit; and
(v) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
(2) Bearings. (i) Bearings must be of non-ferrous metal, or must be of the roller or ball-bearing type;
(ii) Positive means of lubrication must be provided; and
(iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart for each davit together with a plate attached to the davit indicating the lubricants recommended for extremes in temperature;
(3) Guards. All moving parts must have guards;
(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the davit is constructed or the national body’s designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests; and
(5) Hydraulic systems, if installed, must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.132-9 Preapproval review.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a davit, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit in triplicate—
(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision issue, and date;
(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;
(3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
(4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.132-19 and 160.132-21 of this subpart;
(5) A description of the quality control procedures and recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the davit, which must include, but is not limited to—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the davit complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the davit will be constructed; and
(8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in § 160.132-15 of this subpart.
(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section; so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR subpart 159.010.
(d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—
(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;
(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the davit meets the construction requirements of this subpart;
(3) Accurately depict the proposed davit;
(4) Be internally consistent;
(5) Be legible; and
(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory’s attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.
(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.
§ 160.132-11 [Reserved]
§ 160.132-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype davits.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.132-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype davit, and the approval inspections and tests required under this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule with the cognizant OCMI that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on davits or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype—
(A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under § 160.132-9 of this subpart;
(B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.132-9 of this subpart; and
(C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.132-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified;
(ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of davits, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the davits in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests. (1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype davit of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraph 8.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart) applicable to the design and service of the davit.
(2) Visual inspection. Each davit must be visually inspected to confirm—
(i) Compliance with this subpart;
(ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
(iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
(3) Hydraulic controls. If the davit design includes a fluid power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a davit similar in construction to a davit that has successfully completed the tests.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final version of the plans required under § 160.132-9 of this subpart in triplicate.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.
§ 160.132-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and conformance of davits.
(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of davits must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Manufacturer’s responsibility. The manufacturer must—
(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production davits are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype davit approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer’s quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section), to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
(3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the following—
(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each davit constructed;
(ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and
(iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the davit, if known;
(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the davit are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.132-13(h) of this subpart;
(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the davit, work or testing is performed on davits or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, below, for the purpose of—
(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(ii) Witnessing tests; or
(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the davits are being made in accordance with the plans approved under § 160.132-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each davit. The records must include—
(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each document listed in § 160.132-5 of this subpart;
(2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved davit;
(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved davits, together with records identifying the serial numbers of davits in which such materials were used;
(5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
(6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
(7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
(8) The serial number of each production davit, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
(9) The original purchaser of each davit and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.
(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under this section for each Coast Guard-approved davit to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces davits for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
(e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved davit must be inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and the load test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart).
§ 160.132-17 Marking and labeling.
(a) Each davit must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the davit.
(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.
(c) The plate or label must contain the—
(1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
(2) Manufacturer’s model identification;
(3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production tests;
(4) Serial number of the davit;
(5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
(6) Month and year of manufacture;
(7) Safe working load of the davit; and
(8) Word “SOLAS”.
§ 160.132-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship’s training manual.
(a) Each davit must have instructions and information for the ship’s training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the davit.
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
(c) The davit manufacturer must make operating instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a davit approved by the Coast Guard.
§ 160.132-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
(a) Each davit must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
(1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.132-5 of this subpart); and
(2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the davit.
(b) The davit manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a davit approved by the Coast Guard.
(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
§ 160.132-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.132-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production davit. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures in § 160.132-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype davit with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.132-9 through 160.132-13 of this subpart.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
Subpart 160.133—Release Mechanisms for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats
§ 160.133-1 Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism used for davit-launched and free-fall lifeboats approved under subpart 160.135 of this part, and rescue boats approved under subpart 160.156 of this part.
§ 160.133-3 Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the “condition B” weight.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of persons. This is also known as the “condition A” weight.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.133-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.133-7 (“ASTM A 276”).
(2) ASTM A 313/A 313M -08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.133-7 (“ASTM A 313”).
(3) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.133-7 (“ASTM A 314”).
(4) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.133-7 (“ASTM F 1166”).
(c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.133-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 , IBR approved for § § 160.133-3 and 160.133-7 (“IMO LSA Code”) .
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, pages 79-254, IBR approved for §§ 160.133-7 and 160.133-13 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”).
(4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for § 160.133-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.133-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
(6) Annex 4 to MSC 89/25, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Ninth Session, “Resolution MSC.320(89), Adoption of Amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code,” (adopted May 20, 2011), IBR approved for §§ 160.133-3, 160.133-5(c)(6), 160.133-7(d)(1), 160.133-7(b)(8), and 160.133-7(b)(9) (“Resolution MSC.320(89)”).
(7) Annex 5 to MSC 89/25, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Ninth Session, “Resolution MSC.321(89), Adoption of Amendments to the Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving Appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)),” (adopted May 20, 2011), IBR approved for §§ 160.133-5(c)(7), 160.133-7(a)(2), and 160.133-13(d)(2) (“Resolution MSC.321(89)”).
§ 160.133-7 Design, construction, and performance of release mechanisms.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism, a manufacturer must comply with, and each release mechanism must meet, the requirements of the following—
(1) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89), chapter IV/4.4.7.6 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart), and a release mechanism for free-fall lifeboats must also meet the applicable provisions of chapter VI/6.1.4;
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89), Part 1/6.9 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart);
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each release mechanism must meet the following requirements—
(1) Design. All functions of the release mechanism, including removal of interlocks, operation of the release handle, resetting the hooks, and reattaching the falls to the hooks, must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion suits;
(2) Each release mechanism should be designed following standard human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166;
(3) Steel. Each major structural component of each release mechanism must be constructed of corrosion-resistant steel. Corrosion-resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313 or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart). Other corrosion-resistant materials may be used if accepted by the Commandant as having equivalent or superior corrosion-resistant characteristics;
(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the release mechanism is constructed or the national body’s designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests;
(5) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
(6) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware, securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift;
(7) The on-load operation of the release mechanism must require two separate, deliberate actions by the operator;
(8) The mechanical protection required by “IMO”, LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89), Chapter IV/4.4.7.6.2.2 must only be able to be engaged when the release mechanism is properly and completely reset. Proper engagement of the mechanical protection must be visually indicated;
(9) The release and recovery procedures required by “IMO” LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89),Chapter IV/4.4.7.6.5 must be included as an illustrated operation instruction plate or placard. The plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word “Danger”. The illustrations must correspond exactly to those used in the instruction and maintenance manual provided by the manufacturer;
(10) The release lever or control must be red in color, and the area immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color;
(11) The release lever and its connection to the release mechanism must be of sufficient strength so that there is no deformation of the release lever or the release control assembly during on-load release;
(12) Positive means of lubrication must be provided for each bearing which is not permanently lubricated. Points of lubrication must be so located that they are clearly visible and accessible in the installed position in the boat;
(13) A hydraulic system, if used to activate the release mechanism, must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that—
(i) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and FC332-X are not permitted;
(ii) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 in); and
(iii) If a hand pump is provided, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or hand operation;
(14) Each release mechanism designed to launch a boat by free-fall must not be able to carry any weight until the release mechanism is properly reset, and each of the two independent activation systems required to be operated from inside the boat must require at least two independent actions from different locations inside the boat to release the hook; and
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.133-9 Preapproval review.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit in triplicate—
(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision issue, and date;
(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;
(3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts, including the release hooks, release mechanisms, and connections;
(4) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
(5) Drawings of all signs and placards showing actual inscription, format, color, and size;
(6) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this subpart;
(7) A description of the quality control procedures and recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the release mechanism, which must include but is not limited to—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(8) Full details of any other unique capability;
(9) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the release mechanism complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(10) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the release mechanism will be constructed; and
(11) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in § 160.133-15 of this subpart.
(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—
(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;
(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the release mechanism meets the construction requirements of this subpart;
(3) Accurately depict the proposed release mechanism;
(4) Be internally consistent;
(5) Be legible; and
(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory’s attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.
(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.
§ 160.133-11 [Reserved]
§ 160.133-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype release mechanisms.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.133-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype release mechanism, and the approval inspections and tests required under this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notification must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype—
(A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart;
(B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart; and
(C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified;
(ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of release mechanisms, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests—(1) Prototype release mechanism readiness. All tests must be conducted on a complete release mechanism.
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype release mechanism of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89), part 1, paragraph 6.9 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart) applicable to davit-launched or free-fall lifeboats. Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89),Part 1, with the following modifications—
(i) Visual inspection. Each release mechanism must be visually inspected to confirm—
(A) Compliance with this subpart;
(B) Conformance with the examined plans; and
(C) Ease of operation and maintenance;
(ii) Operation. Operation of the off-load control, for a davit-launched boat, must be tested to confirm that the release lever cannot be shifted to release the boat in either the full load or light load condition. For a free-fall boat, the operation of the hook release must be demonstrated using both activation systems and may be tested without launching the boat;
(iii) Tensile tests. The release mechanism hook assembly and supporting structure must be tensile tested in a jig built to load the hook assembly in the same way it would be loaded when installed in a boat. The hook assembly will be approved for a maximum of one-sixth of the highest load applied without failure;
(iv) Universal joints. This test is required if the release mechanism employs universal joints to transmit the release power from the control to the hook release. One of each type and size of universal joint must be set up in a jig with the angles of leads set at 0 (zero), 30, and 60 degrees, respectively. A torque of 540 Nm (400 ft lb) must be applied. This torque must be applied with the connecting rod secured beyond the universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position. There must be no permanent set, or undue stress, as a result of this test; and
(v) Hydraulic controls. If the release mechanism includes a fluid power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a release mechanism identical in construction to smaller and larger release mechanisms that have successfully completed the tests. However, stress calculations in accordance with § 160.133-9(b)(3) of this subpart must still be submitted. Tests associated with release mechanism components that have already been accepted by the Commandant are not required to be repeated.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final plans of the release mechanism as built, in triplicate. The plans must include the instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this subpart, respectively.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.
§ 160.133-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and conformance of release mechanisms.
(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of release mechanisms must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Manufacturer’s responsibility. The manufacturer must—
(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production release mechanisms are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype release mechanism approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer’s quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
(3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the following—
(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each release mechanism constructed;
(ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and
(iii) Serial number and model of the lifeboat or rescue boat in which the release mechanism is installed, if known;
(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the release mechanism are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart;
(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the release mechanism, work or testing is performed on release mechanism or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for the purpose of—
(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(ii) Witnessing tests; or
(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the release mechanisms are being made in accordance with the approved plans approved under § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each release mechanism. The records must include—
(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each document listed in § 160.133-5 of this subpart;
(2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved release mechanism;
(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved release mechanisms, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used;
(5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
(6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
(7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
(8) The serial number of each production release mechanism, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
(9) The original purchaser of each release mechanism and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.
(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved release mechanism to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces release mechanisms for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
(e) Production inspections and tests. Each finished release mechanism must be visually inspected. The manufacturer must develop and maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all applicable requirements have been met.
§ 160.133-17 Marking and labeling.
(a) Each hook body of a release mechanism must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the release mechanism.
(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.
(c) The plate or label must contain the—
(1) Manufacturer’s name and model identification;
(2) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production tests;
(3) Serial number of the release mechanism;
(4) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
(5) Month and year of manufacture;
(6) Safe working load of the release mechanism; and
(7) Word “SOLAS.”
§ 160.133-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship’s training manual.
(a) Each release mechanism must have instructions and information for the ship’s training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the release mechanism.
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
(c) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available—
(1) In English to purchasers of release mechanisms approved by the Coast Guard; and
(2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple procedures and illustrations for operation of the release mechanism. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and must be made of durable material and suitable for display inside a lifeboat and rescue boat and/or near launching appliances on vessels.
§ 160.133-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
(a) Each release mechanism must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
(1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart); and
(2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the release mechanism.
(b) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a release mechanism approved by the Coast Guard.
(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
§ 160.133-23 Procedure for approval of design, material, or construction change.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production release mechanism. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures set forth in § 160.133-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype release mechanism with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.133-9 through 160.133-13 of this subpart.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, material, or construction will be made by the Commandant only.
Subpart 160.135—Lifeboats
§ 160.135-1 Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat.
§ 160.135-3 Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) means a composite structural material formed by electrical-grade glass fibers in Coast Guard accepted catalyst activated resin.
Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the “condition B” weight.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of persons. This is also known as the “condition A” weight.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
Positive Stability means the condition of a lifeboat such that when it is displaced a small amount in any direction from upright, it returns on its own to the position before displacement.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.135-5 Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 36”).
(2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 276”).
(3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 313”).
(4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 314”).
(5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-11, and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 653”).
(6) ASTM B 127-05 (Reapproved 2009), Standard Specification for Nickel-Copper Alloy (UNS N04400) Plate, Sheet, and Strip, (approved October 1, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 127”).
(7) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 209”).
(8) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 638”).
(9) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 970”).
(10) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM D 2584”).
(11) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM D 4029”).
(12) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“ASTM F 1166”).
(c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“FED-STD-595C”).
(2) [Reserved]
(d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“IMO Res. 658(16)”).
(2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-3, 160.135-7, and 160.135-13.
(4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-13, and 160.135-15.
(5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.135-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
(e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 Geneve 20, Switzerland.
(1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics—Determination of tensile properties, part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 527”).
(2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics—Prepregs, moulding compounds and laminates—Determination of the textile-glass and mineral-filler content—Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 15, 1996), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ISO 1172”).
(3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites—Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 14125”).
(f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(1) A-A-55308, Commercial Item Description, Cloth And Strip, Laminated Or Coated, Vinyl Nylon Or Polyester, High Strength, Flexible, (May 13, 1997), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15. (“A-A-55308”).
(2) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“MIL-C-19663D”).
(3) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“MIL-P-17549D(SH)”).
(4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for § 160.135-11,
§ 160.135-7 Design, construction, and performance of lifeboats.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, a manufacturer must comply with, and each lifeboat must meet, the requirements of the following—
(1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/6 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each lifeboat must meet the following requirements:
(1) Design. (i) Each lifeboat, other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion suits.
(ii) Each lifeboat should be designed following standard human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166.
(2) Visibility from operator’s station. (i) The operator’s station must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control station, has visibility 360 degrees around the lifeboat, with any areas obstructed by the lifeboat structure or its fittings visible by moving the operator’s head and torso.
(ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the speed of the lifeboat, must be able to see the water—
(A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (9 ft, 10 in) of each side of the lifeboat;
(B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the lifeboat; and
(C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for recovering persons from the water.
(iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or docking operations, a hatch must be provided so that the operator can stand with his or her head outside the lifeboat for increased visibility, provided the operator can still steer and control the speed of the lifeboat.
(3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each lifeboat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.