eCFR __ 46 CFR Part 160 Subpart 160.151 -- Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS).pdf

Displaying title 46, up to date as of 11/09/2021. Title 46 was last amended 10/22/2021.

Subpart 160.151 Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS) 160.151-1 – 160.151-61 § 160.151-1 Scope.

§ 160.151-3 Definitions.

§ 160.151-5 Incorporation by reference.

§ 160.151-7 Construction of inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-9 Independent laboratory.

§ 160.151-11 Approval procedure.

§ 160.151-13 Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for approval.

§ 160.151-15 Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-17 Additional requirements for design and performance of SOLAS A and

SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-21 Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-25 Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-27 Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-29 Additional approval tests for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-31 Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts.

§ 160.151-33 Marking and labeling.

§ 160.151-35 Servicing.

§ 160.151-37 Servicing manual.

§ 160.151-39 Training of servicing technicians.

§ 160.151-41 Approval of servicing facilities.

§ 160.151-43 Conditions at servicing facilities.

ENHANCED CONTENT - TABLE OF CONTENTS

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/chapter-I/subchapter-Q/part-160/subpart-160.151?toc=1

Title 46

Subpart 160.151 - Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS)

Source: CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, unless otherwise noted.

§ 160.151-1 Scope.

This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for approval by the Coast Guard of inflatable liferafts. This subpart does not apply to any inflatable liferaft approved by the Commandant before November 10, 2011, so long as the liferaft satisfies the annual servicing requirements set forth in 46 CFR 160.151-57.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 76 FR 70062, Nov. 10, 2011]

§ 160.151-3 Definitions.

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.

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.

Servicing means periodic inspection, necessary repair, and repacking by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard. Requirements for periodic inspection and repair of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard are described in §§ 160.151-35 through 160.151-57.

§ 160.151-45 Equipment required for servicing facilities.

§ 160.151-47 Requirements for owners or operators of servicing facilities.

§ 160.151-49 Approval of servicing facilities at remote sites.

§ 160.151-51 Notice of approval.

§ 160.151-53 Notice to OCMI of servicing.

§ 160.151-55 Withdrawal of approval.

§ 160.151-57 Servicing procedure.

§ 160.151-59 Operating instructions and information for the ship's training manual.

§ 160.151-61 Maintenance instructions.

https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-57 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62996 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-70062 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-1.01-15#p-1.01-15(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-35 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-57

SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended by the International Maritime Organization through the 1988 (GMDSS) amendments, dated 9 November 1988.

SOLAS A Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS A equipment pack.

SOLAS B Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS B equipment pack.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009, USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]

§ 160.151-5 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. To enforce any edition other than that specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the public. All approved material is available for inspection at 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. You may also inspect this material 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.

You may obtain copies of the material from the sources specified in the following paragraphs.

(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.

(1) ASTM F 1014-02 (Reapproved 2007), Standard Specification for Flashlights on Vessels, (approved May 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ASTM F 1014”).

(2) [Reserved]

(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 §§ 160.151-15 and 160.151-17 (“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.657(16), Instructions for Action in Survival Craft, (adopted October 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“IMO Res. A.657(16)”).

(2) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-15 (“IMO Res.

https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/74-FR-49237 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62996 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/78-FR-60159 https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/5/552 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-1/part-51 http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-17 http://www.imo.org/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012; USCG-2013- 0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]

§ 160.151-7 Construction of inflatable liferafts.

Except as specified in this subpart, each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the requirements of Chapter III of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code as amended by Resolution MSC 293(87) pp , ( p , ), pp § ( A.658(16)”).

(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-7, 160.151-15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-33.

(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 §§ 160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151- 29, 160.151-31, and 160.151-57.

(5) Annex 7 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Seventh Session, “Resolution MSC.293(87), Adoption of Amendments to the International Life- Saving Appliance (LSA) Code,” (adopted May 21, 2010), IBR approved for §§ 160.151- 7, 160.151-15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-33 (“Resolution

MSC.293(87)”).

(6) Annex 9 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Seventh Session, “Resolution MSC.295(87), Adoption of Amendments to the Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving Appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)),” (adopted May 21, 2010), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151-29, 160.151-31, and 160.151-57 (“Resolution MSC.295(87)”).

(e) International Standards Organization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH 1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.

(1) ISO 15738:2002(E), Ships and marine technology - Gas inflation systems for inflatable life-saving appliances, First Edition (February 1, 2002), IBR approved for § 160.151-15

(“ISO 15738”).

(2) ISO 17339:2002(E), Ships and marine technology - Sea anchors for survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (November 15, 2002), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ISO 17339”).

(3) ISO 18813:2006(E), Ships and marine technology - Survival equipment for survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (April 1, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ISO 18813”).

(f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

(1) MIL-C-17415F, Military Specification, Cloth, Coated, and Webbing, Inflatable Boat and Miscellaneous Use, (May 31, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-15 (“MIL-C-17415F”).

(2) [Reserved] https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62996 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/77-FR-9865 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/78-FR-60159 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-7 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-17 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-33 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-57 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-7 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-17 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-33 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-57 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-21 https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/ requirements of Chapter III of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart). To be approved under this subpart, inflatable liferafts must be constructed in accordance with the following provisions of the IMO LSA Code:, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87):

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011;

77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-9 Independent laboratory.

Tests and inspections that this subpart requires to be conducted by an independent laboratory must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of part 159 of this chapter to perform such tests and inspections. A list of accepted laboratories is available from the Commandant.

§ 160.151-11 Approval procedure.

(a) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/1.2, General requirements for life-saving appliances; and

(b) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter IV/4.2, Inflatable liferafts.

(a) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must comply with the procedures in part 159, subpart 159.005, of this chapter and in this section.

(b) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of § 159.005-5 of this chapter for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of § 159.005-5(a)(2) of this chapter, the manufacturer shall submit -

(1) General-arrangement drawing including principal dimensions;

(2) Seating-arrangement plan;

(3) Plans for subassemblies;

(4) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;

(5) Plans for the inflation system;

(6) Plans for the outer container;

(7) Plans for any lifting shackle or ring, including diameter in cross-section, used for connecting the suspension tackle of a davit-launched inflatable liferaft to the automatic disengaging device used for its hoisting and lowering;

(8) Other drawing(s) necessary to show that the inflatable liferaft complies with the requirements of this subpart;

(9) Description of methods of seam and joint construction;

(10) Samples and identification of each material used in the buoyancy chambers, floor, and i l di h id i f h i f d f h f https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62997 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/77-FR-9865 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-159 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-159.005-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-159.005-5#p-159.005-5(a)(2)

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011]

§ 160.151-13 Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for approval.

If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.151-11 is satisfactory to the Commandant, fabrication of a prototype inflatable liferaft must proceed in the following sequence:

canopy, including the identity of their manufacturers, and segments of each type of seam made from such materials; and

(11) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed inflatable liferaft, including the maximum proposed height of its installation above the water, and the maximum length of the sea painter installed in the inflatable liferaft.

(a) The manufacturer shall arrange for an independent laboratory to inspect the liferaft during its fabrication and prepare an inspection report meeting the requirements of § 159.005-11 of this chapter. The independent laboratory shall conduct at least one inspection during layup of the buoyancy tubes of the liferaft, at least one inspection of the finished liferaft when fully inflated, and as many other inspections as are necessary to determine that the liferaft -

(1) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans;

(2) Passes the applicable inspections and tests required by § 160.151-31; and

(3) Conforms with the manufacturer's plans.

(b) The manufacturer shall submit the independent laboratory's inspection report to the Commandant for review.

(c) If, after review of the inspection report of the independent laboratory, the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the liferaft is in compliance with the requirements of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the approval tests required under §§ 160.151- 27 and 160.151-29.

(d) The manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI of where the approval tests required under §§ 160.151-27 and 160.151-29 will take place and arrange with the OCMI a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed.

(e) The manufacturer shall admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on inflatable liferafts or their component parts and materials for the purpose of -

(1) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;

(2) Witnessing tests; and

(3) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests.

(f) The manufacturer shall make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of inflatable https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62997 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-11 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-159.005-11 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-29

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997; 62 FR 35392, July 1, 1997]

§ 160.151-15 Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.

To satisfy the requirements of the regulations of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), each inflatable liferaft must meet the following requirements of this section:

invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of inflatable liferafts, together with records identifying the lot numbers of the liferafts in which such materials were used.

(g) On conclusion of the approval testing, the manufacturer shall comply with the requirements of § 159.005-9(a)(5) of this chapter by submitting the following to the Commandant:

(1) The report of the prototype testing prepared by the manufacturer. The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results.

(2) The final plans of the liferaft as built. The plans must include -

(i) The servicing manual described in § 160.151-37;

(ii) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.151-59 and 160.151-61, respectively;

(iii) The final version of the plans required under § 160.151-11(b), including -

(A) Each correction, change, or addition made during the construction and approval testing of prototypes;

(B) Sufficient detail to determine that each requirement of this subpart is met;

(C) Fabrication details for the inflatable liferaft, including details of the method of making seams and joints; and

(D) Full details of the inflation system.

(3) A description of the quality-control procedures that will apply to the production of the inflatable liferaft. These must include -

(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 seams and joints; and

(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved liferaft complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart.

(a) Workmanship and materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.1). Each liferaft must be constructed of the following types of materials meeting MIL-C-17415E (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart, or f https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-35392 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-159.005-9#p-159.005-9(a)(5) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-37 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-59 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-61 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-11#p-160.151-11(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior and be capable of withstanding the prototype tests specified in 160.151-27 of this subchapter.

(b) Seams (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each seam must be at least as strong as the weakest of the materials joined by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape where necessary to prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.

(c) Protection from cold inflation-gas (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each inflatable compartment must be provided with a protective liner or baffling arrangement at the inflation-gas inlet, or other equally effective means to prevent damage from exposure to cold inflation-gas.

(d) Compatibility of dissimilar materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.4). Where dissimilar materials are combined in the construction of a liferaft, provisions must be made to prevent loosening or tightening due to differences in thermal expansion, freezing, buckling, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.

(e) Color (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.6). The primary color of the exterior of the canopy must be vivid reddish orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.

(f) Retroreflective material (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.7). Each inflatable liferaft must be marked with Type I retroreflective material approved under part 164, subpart 164.018, of this chapter as complying with SOLAS. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).

(g) Towing attachments (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.1.4) Each towing attachment must be reinforced strongly enough to withstand the towing strain, and marked to indicate its function.

(h) Weight (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.2.2). The weight of the liferaft including its container and equipment may not exceed 185 kg (407.8 lb), unless the liferaft is intended for launching into the water directly from its stowed position using an inclined or hand-tilted rack, or is served by a launching appliance approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.163.

(i) Lifelines (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.3.1). Each lifeline must be made of nylon tubular webbing with a minimum diameter of 14 mm (9/16-inch), rope with a minimum diameter of 10 mm (3⁄8-inch), or equivalent. Each lifeline-attachment patch must have a minimum breaking strength of 1.5 kN (350 lb) pull exerted perpendicular to the base of the patch. Each bight of an exterior lifeline must be long enough to allow the lifeline to reach to the waterline of the liferaft when it is afloat.

(j) [Reserved]

(k) Painter system (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.6.1). The painter protruding from the liferaft container must be inherently resistant, or treated to be resistant, to deterioration from sunlight and salt spray, and resistant to absorption and wicking of water.

(l) Inflation cylinders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Each compressed-gas inflation cylinder within the liferaft must meet the requirements of § 147.60 of this chapter, and be installed so that -

(1) Slings and reinforcements of sufficient strength retain the inflation cylinders in place when the liferaft is dropped into the water from its stowage height and during inflation;

and

(2) The painter and the inflation cylinders of the liferaft are linked to start inflation when the painter is pulled by one person exerting a force not exceeding 150 N (34 lb).

(m) Inflation systems (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Gas inflation systems, including gas-cylinder valves; gas-cylinder operating heads; high-pressure hose assemblies; and pressure relief, inflation/deflation, and non-return/transfer valves; must be certified as complying with the requirements of ISO 15738 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).

(n) Boarding ladders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.2). The steps of each boarding ladder must provide a suitable foothold.

(o) Canopy lamps (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.3.3).

The exterior and interior liferaft canopy lamps must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.

(p) Containers (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.6.1).

Each container for packing liferafts -

(1) Must include a telltale made with a seal-and-wire, or equivalent, method for indicating whether the liferaft has been tampered with or used since packing;

(2) Must be designed so that the liferaft breaks free of the container when inflation is initiated, without the need to manually open or remove any closing arrangement;

(3) Must have an interior surface smooth and free from splinters, barbs, or rough projections;

(4) Must be of rigid construction where the liferaft is intended for float-free launching or for exposed stowage on deck;

(5) If rigid, must be designed to facilitate securing the inflatable liferaft to a vessel to permit quick release for manual launching;

(6) If constructed of fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, must be provided with a means to prevent abrasion of the liferaft fabric, such as by using a gel-coated interior finish of the container, enclosing the liferaft in an envelope of plastic film, or equivalent means;

and

(7) Except as provided in paragraph (o)(4) of this section, may be of fabric construction.

Each container of fabric construction must be made of coated cloth, include carrying handles and drain holes, and be adaptable to stowage and expeditious removal from lockers and deck-mounted enclosures adjacent to liferaft-launching stations. The i h f lif f i f b i i i l di i i d i https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-147.60 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-15#p-160.151-15(o)(4)

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998;

USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-17 Additional requirements for design and performance of SOLAS A and

SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

To satisfy the requirements of the indicated regulations of SOLAS and IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must be manufactured in accordance with §§ 160.151-7 and 160.151- 15, and must comply with the following additional requirements:

weight of a liferaft in a fabric container including its container and equipment may not exceed 100 kg (220 lb).

(a) Stability (the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.5).

(1) Each liferaft with a capacity of more than 8 persons must have a waterplane of circular or elliptical shape. A hexagonal, octagonal, or similar outline approximating a circular or elliptical shape is acceptable.

(2) Each liferaft manufactured under this subpart must have water-containing stability appendages on its underside to resist capsizing from wind and waves. These appendages must meet the following requirements:

(i) The total volume of the appendages must not be less than 220 liters (7.77 ft ) for liferafts approved to accommodate up to 10 persons. The volume of an appendage is calculated using the bottom of the lowest opening in an appendage as the height of the appendage, and by deducting the volume of any objects inside the appendage. No opening designed to close as water is forced out of an appendage is an opening for the purpose of this calculation.

(ii) The total volume of the appendages for liferafts approved to accommodate more than 10 persons must be not less than 20 × N liters (0.706 × N ft ), where N = the number of persons for which the liferaft is approved.

(iii) The appendages 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.

(iv) The appendages must consist of at least two separate parts so that damage to one part will permit at least half of the required total volume to remain intact.

(v) Openings in or between the appendages must be provided to limit the formation of air pockets under the inflatable liferaft.

(vi) The appendages must be designed to deploy underwater when the liferaft inflates, and to fill to at least 60 percent of their capacity within 25 seconds of deployment. If weights are used for this purpose, they must be of corrosion-resistant material.

(vii) The primary color of the appendages must be vivid reddish orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)) or a fluorescent color of a similar hue https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/63-FR-52192 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62997 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/77-FR-9865 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-7

USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-21 Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

To obtain Coast Guard approval, the equipment in each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the following specific requirements when complying with the indicated regulations of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart):

subpart)), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.

(b) Boarding ramp (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.1).

The boarding ramp must have sufficient size and buoyancy to support one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.

(a) Heaving line (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.1).

The buoyant heaving line must have a breaking strength of not less than 1.1 kN (250 lb), and must be attached to the inflatable liferaft near the entrance furthest from the painter attachment.

(b) Jackknife (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.2).

Each folding knife must be a jackknife approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.043.

(c) Bailer ((IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.3 and ISO 18813 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)). Each bailer must have a volume of at least 2 L (125 in ).3

(d) Sponge (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.4).

Each sponge must have a volume of at least 750 cm (48 in ) when saturated with water.3 3

(e) Sea anchors (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.5 and ISO 17339 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)). Sea anchors without the swivels may be used if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design does not rotate when streamed. The sea anchors need not have the tripping lines if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design can be hauled in by one person. Sea anchors must be attached to the raft at a position so as to orient the primary entrance away from the seas as far as practicable while still allowing the sea anchor to be retrieved by a person inside the raft.

(f) Paddles (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.6 and ISO 18813). The paddles must be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) long and must be of the same size and type as used to pass the maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).

(g) Tin-opener (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.7 and ISO 18813). Each sharp part of a tin-opener must have a guard.

(h) First-aid kit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.8).

Each first-aid kit must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.054.

https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/63-FR-52192 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62997 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/77-FR-9865 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5

(i) Whistle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.9 and ISO 18813). The whistle must be a ball-type or multi-tone whistle of corrosion-resistant construction.

(j) Rocket parachute flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.10). Each rocket parachute flare must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.136.

(k) Hand flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.11).

Each hand flare must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.121.

(l) Buoyant smoke signal (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.12). Each buoyant smoke signal must be of the floating type approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.122.

(m) Electric torch (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.13). The waterproof electric torch must be a Type I or Type III flashlight constructed and marked in accordance with ASTM F 1014 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart). Three-cell-size flashlights bearing Coast Guard approval numbers in the 161.008 series may continue to be used as long as they are serviceable.

(n) Radar reflector (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.14). The radar reflector may be omitted if the outside of the container of the inflatable liferaft includes a notice near the “SOLAS A” or “SOLAS B” marking indicating that no radar reflector is included.

(o) Signalling mirror (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.15). Each signalling mirror must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.020.

(p) Lifesaving signals (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.16). If not provided on a waterproof card or sealed in a transparent waterproof container, the table of lifesaving signals may be provided as part of the instruction manual.

(q) Fishing tackle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.17). The fishing tackle must be in a kit approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.061.

(r) Food rations (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.18) The food rations must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.046.

(s) Drinking water (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.19). Emergency drinking water must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.026. The desalting apparatus must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.058.

(t) Drinking cup (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.20 and ISO 18813). The drinking cup must be graduated in ounces or milliliters or both.

(u) Anti-seasickness medicine (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4 1 5 1 21 and ISO 18813) The anti seasickness medicine must include

Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.21 and ISO 18813). The anti-seasickness medicine must include instructions for use and be marked with an expiration date.

(v) Survival instructions (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.22 and ISO 18813). The instructions on how to survive in a liferaft must -

(1) Be waterproof;

(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;

(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart); and

(4) Be suspended in a clear film envelope from one of the arch tubes of the canopy.

(w) Instructions for immediate action (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.23). The instructions for immediate action must -

(1) Be waterproof;

(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;

(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16);

(4) Explain both the noise accompanying the operation of any provided pressure-relief valves, and the need to render them inoperable after they complete venting; and

(5) Be suspended from the inside canopy, so they are immediately visible by survivors on entering the inflatable liferaft. They may be contained in the same envelope with the instructions on how to survive if the instructions for immediate action are visible through both faces of the envelope.

(x) Thermal protective aid (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.24). Each thermal protective aid must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.174.

(y) Repair outfit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.1 and ISO 18813). The repair outfit must include -

(1) Six or more sealing clamps or serrated conical plugs, or a combination of the two;

(2) Five or more tube patches at least 50 mm (2 in) in diameter (the Commandant will consider self-adhesive patches per ISO 18813 as an alternative); and

(3) A roughing tool, if necessary to apply the patches.

(z) Pump or bellows (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.2). The pump or bellows must be manually operable and arranged to be capable of inflating any part of the inflatable structure of the liferaft.

(aa) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for rendering pressure-relief valves inoperable must be provided in any liferaft fitted with such valves, unless the valves are of a type that can be rendered inoperable without separate plugs. If provided, plugs for pressure-relief valves must be usable with hands gloved in an immersion suit, and must either float or be secured to the liferaft by a lanyard.

USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-25 Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.

The manufacturer may specify additional equipment to be carried in inflatable liferafts if the equipment is identified in the manufacturer's approved drawings and if the packing and inspection of the equipment is covered in the servicing manual. Any such additional equipment for which performance or approval standards are prescribed in this part or in 47 CFR part 80 must comply with those standards.

§ 160.151-27 Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, to satisfy the testing requirements of:

IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 1, paragraphs 5.1 through 5.15; paragraph 5.16 for a davit-launched inflatable liferaft; and paragraph 5.17, a prototype inflatable liferaft of each design submitted for Coast Guard approval must meet the additional specific requirements and tests specified in paragraphs

(c) and (d) of this section.

(b) The Commandant may waive certain tests for a liferaft identical in construction to a liferaft that has successfully completed the tests, if the liferafts differ only in size and are of essentially the same design.

(c) Tests must be conducted in accordance with the indicated paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), except:

(1) Jump test (Paragraph 1/5.2). One-half of the jumps must be with the canopy erect, and the remainder with the canopy furled or deflated. If a “suitable and equivalent mass” is used, it must be equipped with the shoes described in paragraph 1/5.2.1 of Resolution A.689(17), and arranged so the shoes strike the liferaft first.

(2) Mooring-out test (Paragraph 1/5.5). Initial inflation may be with compressed air.

(3) Loading and seating test (Paragraph 1/5.7). For a liferaft not intended for use with a launching or embarkation appliance, the persons used to determine seating capacity shall wear insulated buoyant immersion suits rather than lifejackets.

(4) Boarding test (Paragraph 1/5.8). This test must be performed using each boarding ramp or boarding ladder which is installed on the liferaft.

(5) Canopy-closure test (Paragraph 1/5.12). This test is required only for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts. For a davit-launched liferaft, any opening near the lifting eye should be sealed during the test to prevent the ingress of water. The water accumulated within the liferaft at the end of the test must not exceed 4 L (1 gallon).

(6) Detailed inspection (Paragraph 1/5.14). The independent laboratory's inspection of the prototype liferaft under § 160.151-13(a) satisfies the requirements of paragraph 1/5.14.

https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/62-FR-25547 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/63-FR-52192 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/65-FR-58464 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/76-FR-62997 https://www.federalregister.gov/citation/77-FR-9865 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/part-80 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27#p-160.151-27(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27#p-160.151-27(c) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-27#p-160.151-27(d) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-13#p-160.151-13(a)

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011;

77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-29 Additional approval tests for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

To verify compliance with the requirements of IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.3.5 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), the following test must be conducted for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts in addition to those required by § 160.151-27 and IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart:

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998;

USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-31 Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts.

(7) Davit-launched liferafts - strength test (Paragraph 1/5.16.1). The calculation of combined strength of the lifting components must be based on the lesser of -

(i) The lowest breaking strength obtained for each item; or

(ii) The component manufacturer's ultimate strength rating.

(d) The boarding ramp on each liferaft equipped with one must be demonstrated capable of supporting one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.

(a) Test of filling time for stability appendages. A representative sample of each type and size of stability appendage to be fitted to a liferaft must be tested as follows:

(1) The appendage must be attached to a testing jig similar in material and construction to the appendage's intended location on a liferaft. The method of attachment must be the same as used on a liferaft. The appendage and jig must be attached to a scale capable of recording peak readings, and suspended over a pool of calm water. The dry weight must be recorded.

(2) The appendage and jig must then be quickly lowered into the water until the appendage is completely submerged. When the appendage has been in the water for 25 seconds, it must be smoothly lifted completely out of the water, and the peak weight after the appendage is removed from the water recorded.

(3) The difference in weights measured according to paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section must be at least 60 percent of the appendage's volume, calculated in accordance with § 160.151-17(a)(2)(i).

(b) [Reserved]

(a) Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007, and with those of this section.

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(b) Each liferaft approved by the Coast Guard must be identified with unique lot and serial numbers as follows:

(1) Each lot must consist of not more than 50 liferafts of the same design and carrying capacity.

(2) A new lot must begin whenever the liferafts undergo changes of design, material, production method, or source of supply for any essential component.

(3) The manufacturer may use a running-lot system, whereby the fabrication of the individual liferafts of a lot occurs over an extended interval under an irregular schedule. Each running lot must comprise not more than 10 liferafts of the same design and carrying capacity. Each running-lot system must be in accordance with a procedure proposed by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant.

(4) Unless a lot is a running lot, each lot must consist of liferafts produced under a process of continuous production.

(c) Among the records required to be retained by the manufacturer under 46 CFR 159.007-13 , are affidavits or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved liferafts, together with the lot numbers of the liferafts constructed with those materials.

(d) Each approved liferaft must pass each of the inspections and tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraphs 5.1.3 through 5.1.6 inclusive, (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart) and prescribed by paragraphs (e) through (g) of this section. For a davit-launched liferaft, these tests must be preceded by the test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraph 5.2.

(e) The test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), Paragraph 2/5.1.5, must be conducted under the following conditions:

(1) The test must last 1 hour, with a maximum allowable pressure drop of 5 percent after compensation for changes in ambient temperature and barometric pressure.

(2) For each degree Celsius of rise in temperature, 0.385 kPa must be subtracted from the final pressure reading (0.031 psig per degree Fahrenheit). For each degree Celsius of drop in temperature, 0.385 kPa must be added to the final pressure reading (again,

0.031 psig per degree Fahrenheit).

(3) For each mm of mercury of rise in barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa must be added to the final temperature-corrected pressure reading (0.049 psig per 0.1 inch of mercury).

For each mm of mercury of drop in barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa must be subtracted from the final temperature-corrected pressure reading (again, 0.049 psig per 0.1 inch of mercury). Corrections for changes in ambient barometric pressure are necessary only if a measuring instrument open to the atmosphere, such as a manometer, is used.

(f) One liferaft from each lot of fewer than 30 liferafts, and two from each lot of 30 to 50 liferafts, must pass the test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-159.007-13 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/part-160/section-160.151-5 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-31#p-160.151-31(e) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/section-160.151-31#p-160.151-31(g)

USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]

§ 160.151-33 Marking and labeling.

amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraphs 5.1.1 and 5.1.2. If any liferaft fails this test -

(1) The reason for the failure must be determined;

(2) Each liferaft in the lot must be examined for the defect and repaired if reparable, or scrapped if irreparable; and

(3) The lot test must be repeated, including random selection of the liferaft or liferafts to be tested. If any liferafts from the lot have left the place of manufacture, they must be recalled for examination, repair, and testing as necessary; or else the required actions must take place at an approved servicing facility.

(g) The manufacturer shall arrange for inspections by an accepted independent laboratory at least once in each calendar quarter in which production of liferafts approved by the Coast Guard takes place.