The NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual_4.2 Edition_January 2024.pdf

The NOAA Small Boat

Standards and Procedures Manual

4.2 Edition

January 2024

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MEMORANDUM FOR:

FROM:

SUBJECT:

REFERENCES:

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

OFFICE OF MARINE AND AVIATION OPERATIONS

1315 East-West Highway, 10th Floor

Silver Spring, Maryland 20910-3282

January 3, 2024

Rear Admiral Nancy Hann, NOAA Director, NOAA Corps and Office of Marine and Aviation Operations

Michael Hendon Chair, Small Boat Safety Board

HENDON.MICHAEL. Digitallysignedby

DOUGLAS.13814596 �;4���5�

MICHAELDOUGLAS 13

55 Date: 2024.01.0312:43:18-06'00'

Request to Approve Changes to NOAA Small Boat Standard and

Procedure Manual, 4th Edition

NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual, 4th

Edition (v4.2, January 2024)

ACTION-FORCING EVENT:

The NOAA Small Boat Safety Board requests concurrence and approval of the following changes to the NOAA Small Boat Standard and Procedure Manual 4th Edition (v4.1) issued April 30, 2018. This is the second revision of the original 4th Edition and once approved, these changes would be issued as Edition 4.2 and distributed to the NOAA Small Boat community.

ANALYSIS:

Section 1 - Introduction

1.03 - Scope

• Bullet #3: Expanded SECD charter review requirement to include "All charters (renting of small boats and operated by NOAA) of any type must be approved by OMAO Safety and Environmental Compliance Division (SECD)."

Rationale: To ensure all vessels being operated by NOAA are in compliance with the NOAA Manual 209-10: Occupational Safety and Health Manual. Specifically Section 10.4.3: Marine Vessel Charters.

Section 3 - General Policies

3.04- Requirements for Operations of Non-NOAA Vessels

• Added: "Limited to Class II and below. Multi-day charters require LOSBO approval.

Chartered vessels must be entered into VIM and float plans filed with VOP."

RECOMMENDATION:

The NOAA Small Boat Safety Board recommends you approve the changes as noted above.

APPROVAL:

Concur X' Don't Concur Let's discuss

JAN O 5 2024

Rear Admiral Nancy H�nn, NOAA Director, Office of Marine and Aviation Operations

NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual v

ISSUANCE MEMO

RECORD OF CHANGES 4.2 Edition

SECTION DETAIL

● 1.02: Added subsection “Statement from the Director”

● 1.03: Changed “owned and operated” to “owned and/or operated”

● 1.03: Expanded requirements for ‘charters’ of non-NOAA owned small boats.

All charters/rentals must be approved by SECD using NF 57-11-02.

● 1.03: Added Note: The provisions above do not apply to NOAA Employees

(not as operators) aboard non-NOAA vessels. Those employees are governed by NAO 209-115.”

● 1.04: Refer to Small Boat Program Office (SBPO)

2 ● Removed “This authority is established in the DAO 25.2.”

● 2.01 b: updated language for SBP Inspection, Engineering, and Training

Coordinator.

o Inspection coordinator: Removed “maintaining SBP files for inspections and status” o Engineering Coordinator: Minor rewording o Training Coordinator: New bullet describing duties

● 2.02 e: updated definition of ‘Operator-in-Charge’, added “OIC must be on board vessel” and added that OIC must be identified in float plan.

● 2.02 f: updated definition of ‘Small Boat Operator’. Moved dive operations requirement language to Section 20 (new).

● 2.02 g SBO: Shoreside Point of Contact: Added “or requires operational or emergency assistance.”

3 ● 3.01: Consolidated all government regulations (operational and environmental) into single bullet, added to include tribal regulations.

● 3.04: Added subsection “Requirements for Operations of Non-NOAA Vessels” (moved from 1.03 on Scope).

● 3.04: added “Limited to Class II and below. Multi Day charters require LOSBO approval. Chartered vessels must be entered into VIM and float plans filed in VOP.” Further explained NOAA employees on non-NOAA boats

● 3.05: added “External References” subsection.

● 3.09: Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Related Offenses: added links/resources for NAO’s provided

● 3.09: added gender neutral language

● 3.10: ‘Smoking restrictions’ language updated

● 3.12: 4th bullet changed from “Supervisor” to “OIC” regarding written notification of medical non-clearance.

● 3.15: Waivers: added “If there is no VPC, the VOC will submit waiver requests directly to the LOSBO”

● 3.14: Added Review of Applicability and Interpretation of Requirements.

● Updated Waivers to 3.15 and updated language.

4 ● 4.02: Small Boat Status: Added status categories to match VIM.

5 ● Updated GAR Form used in linked reference

● 5.02 c: 1st bullet removed text “for any GAR ≥ to 7” to read “Mitigating factors must be documented”

● 6: Operator Qualification, Evaluation, and Designation: Added to opening paragraph, “All documentation must be reflected in Vessel Training Records

(VTR).”

● 6.01: Added Bloodborne Pathogen (BBP) Training (for Class A, I, II, and III, SRV)

● 6.01: Added “Note: Training refresher intervals can be found on NF-57-19-04 Small Boat Operator and Crewmember Authorization Form.”. “Crewmember” added to form.

● 6.02 a: removed remark about ‘24 hour’, emphasized ‘instructor-led’.

● 6.02 b: Added “The Component Course is required for all VPCs, VOCs, SBOs and recommended for all crewmembers and personnel involved in small boat operations.”

● 6.02 c: PQS: Added “Completion of the Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual Policy Test”

● 6.02 d: FA, CPR, AED, BBP: BBP language/explanation added, including

CLC.

● 6.02 e: “Program-specific Training”, changed to “Mission-specific Training”

● 6.02 f: Changed from Refresher Training to “Additional Training”. Note:

SBSPM Policy Test every 3 years is annotated on the Training Form (not in

SBSPM).

● First paragraph: Changed to “All small boats must be manned by personnel with the appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities to ensure that operations are conducted in a safe, efficient, and professional manner.”

● 7.02 a: Minimum Safe Manning Levels: Added “The OIC shall ensure the other person has the appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the required duties of the mission.”

● 7.02 e: Extended Operations: Added “Must have adequate qualified personnel aboard to staff SBO, lookout and roving watch duties”

● 7.03: Solo Operations Requirements: Three subcategories of solo ops added.

Dive Operations Manning Requirements now addressed in Section 20. Solo ops without close support require Program Director (or designee), LOSBO and LESCO approval (minimum annually).

● 7.04 a: Updated Underway Requirements, added “Lookout and Roving Watch Requirements”, replaced “Daily Missions” language.

● 7.04 b: Changed to “Extended Operations” from “24 hours operations”.

Minimally reworded some content. Added last bullet “Extended pre and post mission operations, like trailering, should be taken into account when determining proper work/rest periods”

8 ● 8.01: Float Plan/ VOP (added to title): Makes online float plan a requirement.

Changed “Every SBP” to “Every small boat unit”.

● 8.01: Paragraph two: Added language on VOP.

● 8.01: Float plans must contain the GAR category in addition to the values.

9 ● 9.03: Hawaii added to Special Designation areas

● 9.04: Small Boat Stability and Construction Considerations (see last paragraph): Clarified: “General design, construction, and stability requirements…”

● 9.06 Table 9.1: changed language in ‘Class A, All Waters’, ‘Class I and Class II, All Waters’

● 9.06 Table 9.1: Added note: Class II vessels that aspire to operate beyond 20nm, must be reviewed by the VOAR Working Group for Exposed Water operations and approved by the SBSB.

● 9.07: Renamed “Vessel Operating Area Review (VOAR) Working Group” (formerly Stability Working Group (SWG))

● 9.07: Paragraph added to ensure request were routed from VOC through VPC or LOSBO

● 9.07: Added link to Operating Area Review Request Form

● 9.08: Small Boat Acquisition Criteria: Minor language change

● 9.09: Modifications of Small Boats: Language change

● Tables (all): language simplified

● Table 10.1: Removed Throwable Flotation Device

● Table 10.2: Minimum Carriage Requirements, Damage/Emergency Response:

change authorization by “LOSBO”.

● Table 10.3: Bridge Requirements: Updated ‘Compass’ language; specified deviation.

● Table 10.3: Communication: remove SPOT, EPIRB, added “two-way communication”

● Table 10.4 Summary: Grouped columns by operating area instead of vessel class.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2OxarNK4-j-jhjYiDGgfk9P_8uGD_G17PvLATyCv3PYiLIg/viewform

● Table 10.4: Removed Class A ‘Coastal’ and ‘Open Waters’ because it is not authorized

● Table 10.4: ‘Emergency Steerage Plan’ removed because it is not a carriage requirement

● Table 10.4: MOB Recovery Procedure, changed to “MOB - Recovery Procedures and/or gear”

● Added Immersion Suit section to Table 10.1, Table 10.2, and Table 10.3.

Thermal protection and immersion suit language updated in Tables 10.1–10.4.

● Table 10.4: vocabulary/terminology changes:

● Table 10.4: ‘Protected’ and Near Coastal’ combined as “Protected”

● Table 10.4: ‘Coastal’ changed to “Partially Protected”. “(in waters not more than 20nm of the mouth of a harbor of safe refuge, except Special Operating Area Designations)”

● Open Waters is now “Exposed Waters”. Changed from 12nm → >20nm.

● Table 10.5: Portable Fire Extinguisher Minimum Requirements. Updated with new type terminology and added authorization for 10B type extinguishers in Accommodations/Berthing spaces.

● 10.03: Inflatable Life Rafts (ILR) and Inflatable Buoyant Apparatus (IBA) paragraph added, including manufacturer requirements.

● 10.03: Other Considerations: (including inflatables) language added for ‘small boats operating >50nm…’ Moved location.

● 10.06: Fixed Fire Systems: added requirements

● 10.07: Fire Closure Requirements, added 46 CFR 182.465

● 10.08: Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing: language changed (after bullets)

● Removed SBP guidance website link to Anchor rode document. Document is non-existent. Specifications is beyond purview of the SBSPM.

11 ● 11.03: Response Training and Emergency Procedures: added Emergency

Egress and Lithium Battery Hazard Response to bullet list

● 11.04: Pre-mission Brief – Orientation: added “Primary and secondary emergency egress route orientation and drill” to bullet list

● Table 11.1: Class III and SRV’s emergency topics and frequencies: added

Emergency Egress (quarterly) and changed Diver accident to quarterly (if capable of conducting dive ops)

● 12.01: updated acquisition flow chart

● 12.03: Title Change to ‘Accountable Property Management’

● 12.03: Language change “An overview of how NOAA tracks accountable property is available on the NOAA Personal Property Management Branch homepage.”

● 12.03: small boat checklist for property revised

● 12.03: Removed “Before sale or disposal, ensure all identifying stickers, emblems, NOAA hull numbers, and other forms of identification are removed.

Unregister any safety equipment such as EPIRBs and DSC radios.”

13 ● 13.03: Hull number size chart: “minimum” letter size

14 ● 14: Inspections: Added Subchapter U

● 14.02 d: Delinquent Examination and Inspections moved here

● 14.03: Added Subchapter U

● 14.03 f: Category 1 Deficiencies and “No Sail” Order: ‘Reporting Category 1 deficiencies’ updated 15 ● Title: Change from Hazardous Materials to ‘Environmental Compliance’

● 15.01 d: SOPEP updated

● 15.05: Lithium Batteries: added (new)

17 ● 17.01 (a & b): Definitions: “Incident” and “accident” separated and definitions updated.

● 17.01 c: Near miss definition rewritten

● 17.03 Table 17.1: Property Damage: under ‘Property Damage >$1M and Loss of Asset”: Added “Note: an occupational related fatality shall be reported to the local OSHA office within 8 hours.”

● 17.03 Table 17.1, 17.2, and 17.3: NOAA Reporting Mechanism: Link to Online incident reporting system updated.

● 17.04: Investigative Authority (2.d paragraph): added “for Class A and B small boat incidents consistent with NAO 209-1A, Section 7.09 – NOAA Occupational Safety and Health. For all Class A investigations an investigator from NOAA SECO will be part of the investigation team.”

20 ● New section on “Other Regulated Operations” to include 20.01: Dive Operations and 20.02: Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS),

● Dive Operations Requirements: DPIC explanation/language added

● Dive Operations Requirements: SBO & DPIC ‘same person’ explanation added

● Solo Operations Requirements: Mission-Based Risk Assessment language and standards updated to include LOSBO and LESCO approval https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/ocao/lod/noaa-personal-property-management-branch https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/ocao/lod/noaa-personal-property-management-branch

ACRONYMS

AA Assistant Administrator AED Automatic External Defibrillator ASBE Annual Small Boat Evaluation BBP Blood Borne Pathogen COR Contracting Officer’s Representative CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation GAR Green-Amber-Red JHA Job Hazard Analysis IBA Inflatable Buoyant Apparatus ILR Inflatable Life Raft LO Line Office LOSBO Line Office Small Boat Officer MOCC Motorboat Operators Certification course MSD Marine Sanitation Device NAO NOAA Administrative Order NCC NOAA Component Course NDP NOAA Dive Program NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration OEM Original Equipment Manuals OIC Operator-in-Charge/Officer-in-Charge OMAO Office of Marine and Aviation Operations OOD Officer of the Deck ORM Operational Risk Management OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration PQS Personnel Qualification Standards SBEX Small Boat Examination SBO Small Boat Operator SBOM Small Boat Operations Manual SBP Small Boat Program SBPM Small Boat Program Manager SBPO Small Boat Program Office SBSB Small Boat Safety Board SBSP Small Boat Supplemental Policies SBSPM Small Boat Standard and Procedures Manual SECD Safety & Environmental Compliance Division

SRV Small Research Vessel USCG United States Coast Guard VIM Vessel Inventory Management VOC Vessel Operations Coordinator VPC Vessel Program Coordinator WLL Working Load Limit XO Executive Officer

NOAA SMALL BOAT STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION 1

.01 Purpose 1

.02 Statement from the Director, Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) 1

.03 Scope 2

.04 Manual Review and Distribution 2

SECTION 2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 3

.01 Programmatic Roles and Responsibilities 3

.02 Operational Roles and Responsibilities 5

SECTION 3 GENERAL POLICIES 9

.01 Applicable Policies 9

.02 Command Designation 9

.03 Personnel Authorized to Operate NOAA Small Boats 10

.04 Requirements for Operations of Non-NOAA Vessels 10

.05 External References 10

.06 Minimum Age Requirements 10

.07 Foreign Nationals and Controlled Technologies 11

.08 Seamanship and Personal Conduct 11

.09 Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Related Offenses 11

.10 Smoking Restrictions 12

.11 Alcohol, Drugs, and Narcotics 12

.12 Medical and Fitness Considerations 13

.13 Deviations from the Manual 13

.14 Review of Applicability and Interpretation of Requirements 13

.15 Waivers 14

SECTION 4 CLASSIFICATIONS AND STATUS 15

.01 Small Boat Categories 15

.02 Small Boat Status 15

SECTION 5 PROCEDURES FOR RISK ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT 16

.01 Key Principles of Risk Management 16

.02 Process for Managing Risk 16

.03 Risk Elimination and Mitigation 19

.04 Reassessment 19

SECTION 6 OPERATOR QUALIFICATION, EVALUATION, AND DESIGNATION 20

.01 Operator Credentials and Training Requirements Overview 20

.02 Operator Credentials and Training Requirements Information 20

.03 Crewmember Training Information 22

.04 Documentation 22

.05 Delinquency 23

.06 Advanced and Continuing Education 23

SECTION 7 SAFE MANNING AND UNDERWAY REQUIREMENTS 24

.01 Succession to Command 24

.02 Minimum Safe Manning Levels 24

.03 Solo Operations Requirements 25

.04 Underway Requirements 26

SECTION 8 MISSION PLANNING 28

.01 Float Plan via Vessel Operations Program (VOP) 28

.02 Small Boat and Equipment Inspections 29

.03 Start-Up Checklist 29

.04 Mission and Safety Orientation Briefing 30

.05 Underway Requirements 30

.06 Float Plan Updates 31

.07 Post Mission Requirements 31

.08 Procedures for Overdue Boats 31

.09 Documentation 32

SECTION 9 STABILITY, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION 33

.01 Construction and Stability Criteria for Designated-Operating Areas 33

.02 General Operating Area Definitions 33

.03 Exceptions and Special Operating Area Designations 33

.04 Small Boat Stability and Construction Considerations 34

.05 General Stability Requirements 34

.06 Mission Stability Requirements 35

.07 Special Case Class I and II Mission Conditions and Operating Area 37

.08 Small Boat Acquisition Criteria 37

.09 Modifications of Small Boats 37

SECTION 10 LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT AND SMALL BOAT EQUIPMENT 39

.01 Determine Carriage Requirement 39

.02 Guidance for Personal Flotation Devices and Immersion Suits 51

.03 Inflatable Life Rafts (ILR) and Inflatable Buoyant Apparatus (IBA) 54

.04 Emergency Radio Beacon 55

.05 Ring Life Buoy and Water Light Considerations 56

.06 Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems 56

.07 Fire Closure Requirements 56

.08 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing 58

SECTION 11 EMERGENCY READINESS 59

.01 Responsibility 59

.02 Emergency Response Plan Requirements 59

.03 Response Training and Emergency Procedures 60

.04 Pre-mission Brief – Orientation 61

.05 Emergency Exercises and Drills 61

SECTION 12 ACQUISITIONS, ALTERATIONS, AND DISPOSAL 64

.01 Acquisition of New, Used, Surplus, or Transferred Small Boat 64

.02 Considerations for Alterations and Modifications 65

.03 Accountable Property Management 66

SECTION 13 VISUAL IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION 67

.01 Responsibility 67

.02 NOAA Hull-Registration Numbers and Trailer License Plates Registration 67

.03 Visual Identification Scheme 68

.04 Examples of Small Boat Visual Identifications 69

.05 Flags 73

.06 Exemptions 73

SECTION 14 INSPECTIONS 74

.01 Responsibility 74

.02 Examination Procedures for Class A, Class I, and Class II small boats and boat trailers 74

.03 Inspection Procedures for Class III and SRVs 76

SECTION 15 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 79

.01 Environmental Compliance 79

.02 Pollution Prevention Control 80

.03 Marine Sanitation Devices (MSD) 80

.04 Vessel General Permits 81

.05 Lithium Batteries 81

SECTION 16 MAINTENANCE PLAN 83

.01 Maintenance Plan Elements 83

.02 Responsibilities 84

.03 SBP Support for Small Boat Maintenance 84

SECTION 17 ACCIDENT AND DAMAGE REPORTING 85

.01 Definitions 85

.02 Reporting Responsibilities 86

.03 Notification Chain and Timelines 87

.04 Investigation Authority 89

.05 SBSB Review 90

SECTION 18 WEIGHT LIFTING EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE 91

.01 Applicability 91

.02 Definitions 91

.03 Boom, Crane, Davit, Frame, and Winches Inspections 92

.04 Overhauls 95

.05 New or Altered Structures and Equipment 95

.06 Stability Documentation 95

.07 Documentation of Test Results 96

SECTION 19 RIGGING AND PROOF TESTING 97

.01 Identification and Traceability 97

.02 Inspection 97

.03 System Review and Risk Management 98

SECTION 20 OTHER REGULATED OPERATIONS 100

.01 Dive Operations 100

.02 Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operations 102

Appendix A NAO 209-125: NOAA SMALL BOAT SAFETY PROGRAM

Appendix B SMALL BOAT SAFETY BOARD CHARTER

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

.01 Purpose

This Manual incorporates the required provisions defined by NOAA Administrative Order (NAO) 209-125. All small boat operators (SBOs) and crewmembers involved in NOAA small boat operations are required to read and comply with the Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual (the Manual) and operate small boats per the provisions of this Manual. The standards and procedures in this Manual are the minimum requirements that must be met; they may be exceeded but not diminished.

.02 Statement from the Director, Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO)

NOAA maintains an active safety management system with the primary intention to prevent accidents and incidents. An important aspect of this goal is the open sharing of information. The Small Boat Safety Program supports the open sharing of information on all safety issues and encourages all employees to report significant errors, safety hazards, and concerns. Safety is core to our operations, and at no time should an employee be asked to compromise our safety standards to get the job done.

Safety is paramount to everything we do and every decision we make in our organization. Success depends on every employee complying with a safety mindset, adhering to all safety policies, and continually looking for ways to improve in all that we do. Additionally, an environment of inclusivity and respect relates to every team member’s ability to feel safe, be safe, and to speak out when safety concerns arise.

All employees are expected to act in accordance with the values of inclusivity and respect.

Our overall safety objective is the proactive management of identifiable hazards and associated risks. Eliminating safety risks, injuries to people, damage to equipment, and potential harm to the environment is a constant effort. To that end, we will continuously examine our operations for hazards, identify mitigations, and work together to continually improve. We will encourage the reporting of hazards and incidents, train staff on safety management, document our findings, and execute mitigation actions.

Overall responsibility for the NOAA Small Boat Safety Program lies with me as Director, OMAO. Responsibility for making our operations safer for everyone lies with each one of us – from the Safety Board to front-line employees. Each manager is responsible for implementing the safety management system in his or her area of responsibility and will be held accountable to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken.

For the purposes of the Manual, “small boats” are defined as crewed boats less than 300 gross tonnage (GT). The Manual provides policy and guidance to enhance safety and promote operational readiness by implementing general operating standards and procedures for all NOAA small boats. It is intended to supplement best management practices and risk management principles.

https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-209-125-noaa-small-boat-safety-program https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-209-125-noaa-small-boat-safety-program

.03 Scope

The contents of this Manual apply to the following:

● Small boats owned and/or operated by NOAA.

● Small boats owned by NOAA, and operated by other entities.

● All charters (renting of small boats and operated by NOAA) of any type must be approved by OMAO Safety and Environmental Compliance Division (SECD).

Employees must submit a NOAA Form (NF) 57-11-02 and receive clearance before the execution of the charter. Submission and approval information can be found on the SBP intranet website under the Resource Guidance, Manual & Policies Tab. Additional equipment and operational requirements for chartered vessels can be found in Section 3.04 of this manual.

Notes:

The provisions above do not apply to NOAA Employees (not as operators) aboard non-NOAA vessels. Those employees are governed by NAO 209-115.

This manual does not apply to NOAA Employees chartering vessels with operator and crew provided. See NOAA Form (NF) 57-11-02 for guidance.

.04 Manual Review and Distribution

The Small Boat Safety Board (SBSB) is responsible for reviewing the Manual annually. The small boat community is encouraged to review the Manual annually, and propose written changes to their Line Office Small Boat Officer (LOSBO) or the SBPO. Proposed changes will be elevated to the SBSB.

Changes to the Manual are approved by the SBSB, then sent to the Director, Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) for concurrence. Once approved, the Small Boat Program Manager (SBPM) will work in conjunction with the LOSBOs to promulgate the most current edition.

Revisions to the current edition of the Manual will be implemented via the issuance of either technical directives or a new edition of the Manual, as required. A current version of the Manual is available on the SBP intranet website. All Operators are responsible for ensuring that a current version of the Manual is accessible.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j4_YwW5P7ysDLrKovYkAwfumhFyI5Gvu/view?usp=sharing https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/noaa-small-boat-program/resource-guidance/standards-and-procedures-manual?authuser=0 https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/noaa-small-boat-program/resource-guidance/standards-and-procedures-manual?authuser=0 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j4_YwW5P7ysDLrKovYkAwfumhFyI5Gvu/view?usp=sharing https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/noaa-small-boat-program/

SECTION 2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Chart 2.01 NOAA SBP Function Organization Chart

.01 Programmatic Roles and Responsibilities

The Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) has administrative authority over NOAA’s Small Boat Safety Program.

a) Director, OMAO

The Director, OMAO is the individual within OMAO charged with administering the Small Boat Safety Program (SBP), per the NOA 209-125. The Director, OMAO, is the final administrative authority for all matters pertaining to the NOAA Small Boat Safety Program and its policies, procedures, and standards.

b) SBP

The SBP consists of the Small Boat Safety Board (SBSB), the Small Boat Program Office (SBPO), and the small boat community.

The responsibilities of the SBSB are outlined in the NOAA Small Boat Safety Board Charter (Appendix B). The SBSB advises the Director, OMAO on all policies pertaining to NOAA small boat safety and management.

The SBPO works in conjunction with the SBSB to create safety and management policies for NOAA small boats. The SBPO supports small boat inspections, engineering, and training. The SBPO is comprised of:

● SBP Manager is appointed by the Director, OMAO under the Safety

Environmental Compliance Division (SECD) of OMAO. The Manager is the focal point for the Program Office, and is a voting member on the Safety Board.

● SBP Executive Officer is the administrative focal point for the Program Office.

● SBP Inspection Coordinator is responsible for coordinating, scheduling, and conducting boat inspections of Class III boats and Small Research Vessels (SRVs) and can perform Annual Small Boat Evaluations and Small Boat Examinations for Class I and II boats as requested by operating units.

● SBP Engineering Coordinator is responsible for reviewing and providing engineering and technical guidance for new boat construction, acquisition, boat alterations, and repairs. Additionally, they assist Vessel Operations Coordinators with new construction, contracted repairs, and maintenance specifications.

● SBP Training Coordinator is responsible for coordinating, reviewing, and scheduling required SBP Training courses; maintaining SBP training events and sessions within the Commerce Learning Center; evaluating Small Boat courses to ensure they provide the proper content; providing technical guidance related to SBP training practices and procedures.

c) Program Directors

The Program Directors (i.e., Science Center Directors, Lab Directors, Sanctuary Superintendents, Director of Law Enforcement), or the responsible management position for each Vessel Operations Coordinator ensure implementation of, and compliance with, all policies for the safe use and management of small boats within a Program. Each program director must delegate, in writing, operational authority to a Vessel Operations Coordinator.

.02 Operational Roles and Responsibilities

a) Line Office Assistant Administrator

Each Line Office Assistant Administrator (AA) or Deputy AA is charged with ensuring all small boat operations within their Line Office comply with established safety and management policies. Each Line Office AA will appoint at least one LOSBO to oversee small boat operations within the respective Line Office. The LOSBOs serve as voting members on the SBSB.

b) Line Office Small Boat Officer

The LOSBO represents individual programs, as well as the Line Office as a whole. The LOSBO provides oversight and assistance to Line Office Programs to carry out safe and effective small boat operations, and coordinates Line Office compliance with NAO 209-125, as well as the requirements as set by this Manual and Supplemental Small Boat Policy. The LOSBO has authority from their corresponding Director or AA to issue “No Sail” orders to all boats within his/her purview, operating out of compliance with NAO 209-125, this Manual, or any Supplemental Small Boat Policies.

c) Vessel Program Coordinator (VPC)

LOSBOs may identify VPCs with approval by the Program Directors. The VPC assists LOSBO with communication and implementation of policies and requirements; reports issues up to the LOSBO; and provides assistance as needed by the LOSBO.

d) Vessel Operations Coordinator (VOC)

The VOCs are appointed by their respective Program Directors. The authority of the VOC is derived from the Program Director. VOCs may be a Federal employee or a contractor. VOCs have operational authority over the small boats assigned to their rosters. VOCs ensure operations adhere to the safety and management policies laid out in this Manual. VOCs have the authority to issue “No Sail” orders to a boat found to be non-compliant to the Manual.

A VOC’s Programmatic Responsibilities include:

● Ensuring accurate data is entered into Vessel Inventory Management (VIM) database for each small boat under their authority

● Tracking and report operational metrics

● Attending VOC Summits and associated training

● Reporting incidents, accidents, and near misses to proper authority https://floatplan.noaa.gov/vim

A VOC’s Administrative Responsibilities include:

● Maintaining copies of training certificates for the SBOs and Crewmembers using the VOC’s small boats

● Maintaining copies of certification letters for the SBO and Crewmembers using the VOC’s small boats

● Ensuring SBO and crewmember meet certification currency

● Scheduling continuing education opportunities for SBO and Crewmembers

● Developing, conducting, and documenting appropriate drills specific for individual boat operations

● Annually reviewing, updating, and approving each small boat’s Baseline

Assessment

● Conduct Risk Assessment to review and approve new operations, platforms, and proposed personnel

● Verifying proper Float Plan usage

● Tracking active Float Plans

● Maintaining a record of completed Float Plans (3 years retention requirement)

A VOC’s Administrative Authorities include:

● Developing Personal Qualifications Standards for each small boat

● Certifying that Operator-in-Charge (OIC) and SBOs pass Personal

Qualification Standards evaluation

● Removing delinquent operators from the active list

● Revoking an SBO’s qualification, even if the SBO was certified by a previous

VOC

● Requiring additional training for an SBO, even if the SBO was certified by a previous VOC

● Elevating unresolved boat/operational issues to the VPC, then LOSBO and finally SBSB

A VOC’s Responsibilities for Operation, Maintenance, and Inspection include:

● Scheduling required inspections

● Reporting inspection results to SBP Office, LOSBO, and others as directed by local policy

● Documenting completion of required preventative and corrective maintenance to small boats

● Coordinating with the designated Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or SBP Engineering Coordinator for boat-contracted construction, repairs, or maintenance as required

● Documenting equipment malfunctions and corrective actions taken

A VOC’s Authority over Operation, Maintenance, and Inspection include:

● Stopping any small boat operation due to safety or weather concerns

● Taking boats out of service, that is inactive (Section 4.02), due to required repairs or condition concerns

● Issuing Category I safety deficiencies

● Approving corrective measures taken to fix Category I deficiencies

● Ensure all small boat modifications comply with guidelines in Section 9 of this Manual

● Conduct risk assessment for development of a requirements document for procurement/acquisition of newly acquired boats (i.e., be actively involved in new purchases or acquiring excessed small boats)

e) Operator-in-Charge (OIC)

An OIC is a required singular designation of authority and responsibility for the vessel, as directed by the VOC. An OIC must be on board the vessel and is responsible for the safe operation of a small boat and all embarked personnel while underway. The OIC is responsible for ensuring operational risk assessments (Green-Amber-Red (GAR) model), safety briefings, risk mitigation, and risk condition monitoring are properly conducted. The OIC has authority and responsibility to modify or cancel operations based on changing risk assessments.

The OIC is responsible for the oversight of all personnel aboard and to ensure that operations are conducted safely and efficiently, per the Manual, Program, and VOC instructions. The OIC will be clearly identified to all embarked personnel and must be noted in the float plan.

f) Small Boat Operator

An SBO is a qualification based on demonstrated skills and documented training.

An SBO must meet all requirements for certification and be designated per this manual. When two or more small boat operators are on board a vessel, the OIC retains the ultimate responsibility.

g) Shoreside Point of Contact

The Shoreside Point of Contact (POC) is responsible for maintaining and monitoring active Float Plans within their Line Office Program. The POC must be available by phone or radio throughout the duration of the mission. The POC must take action if a small boat is overdue or requires operational or emergency assistance.

h) Crewmember

Crewmembers are persons required to be engaged in the safe operation of the small boat, including (but not limited to) navigation and maintenance of the small boat, its machinery, systems, and arrangements essential for propulsion and safe navigation or to provide services for other persons on board. Crewmembers must participate in the required drills referenced in Section 11 of this Manual.

Additional crewmembers are required onboard during longer, more complex voyages, and/or those voyages requiring the carriage of a large number of people, as defined in Section 7 of this Manual. Crewmembers report directly to the OIC or SBO currently on watch. Crewmembers may also participate in mission activities, as long as crew duties are prioritized.

i) Persons in Addition to Crewmembers

Persons in addition to crewmembers are any person on board the small boat who are not required to be engaged in the safe operation of the small boat. Persons in addition to crew include scientific researchers, persons in support of the mission, interns, or other personnel on board to participate directly in the planned scientific operations. This may include individuals whose presence heightens the public’s awareness of the mission of NOAA such as outreach groups, NOAA stakeholders, members of the media, educators, students, or personnel engaged in the repair or servicing of the small boat. All persons in addition to crew must comply with this Manual and follow the instructions and guidance of the OIC, SBOs, and Crewmembers.

SECTION 3 GENERAL POLICIES

All NOAA small boats must be used only for official government purposes.

.01 Applicable Policies

The operational requirements of NOAA small boats are governed by:

● NAO 209-125

● The Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual

● Supplemental Small Boat Policies (as applicable)

● Small Boat Operations Manual (SBOM)

● Baseline and Mission Risk Assessment

● Applicable federal, state, and tribal regulations

Supplemental Small Boat Policies Line Offices and their subordinate programs may issue policies and procedures relating to small boat safety and small boat operations in addition to the standards and procedures set in this Manual. A Supplemental Small Boat Policy cannot diminish the requirements of this Manual.

Small Boat Operations Manual A boat-specific operation manual is required for each small boat. The SBOM is a compilation of instructions, operational and stability limitations, procedures, regulations, and guidelines derived from the particulars of each small boat, the Baseline Assessment, and the Mission-Based Risk Assessment. A template outlining the minimum topics to be included in an SBOM can be found on the SBP intranet website. An SBOM does not diminish the requirements of the Manual or any Supplemental Small Boat Policies.

Risk Assessment VOC conducts, documents, and reviews Baseline and Mission Risk Assessments for each small boat under their responsibility. Boats of the same design, propulsion, operational and stability capabilities, and mission may be grouped together for this purpose. The assessment is based on an evaluation of operational risks to personnel, small boat, environment, and mission. Guidelines for performing a risk assessment can be found in Section 5 of this Manual. The Baseline and Mission Risk Assessments are included in each SBOM. A Baseline Assessment template can be found on the SBP intranet website.

.02 Command Designation

A Program Director is responsible for delegating authority of small boat operations to the VOC. The VOC is responsible for ensuring all underway operations have a designated OIC. The OIC has command authority over the small boat’s operation and all embarked personnel while underway. The OIC is also responsible for ensuring the https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/noaa-small-boat-program/home https://sites.google.com/a/noaa.gov/noaa-small-boat-program/home https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pT5Q_zGkG2gOtQCGzZef2-_sdgWcGNHv/view?usp=sharing safe conduct of the mission and compliance with all SBP, Line Office, and regulatory policies and procedures.

.03 Personnel Authorized to Operate NOAA Small Boats

Only those personnel whose credentials meet training and certification requirements as per this Manual will be authorized to operate NOAA small boats. A Small Boat Operator and Crewmember Authorization form (NOAA Form 57-19-04, available on the SBP intranet website) must be completed for each qualified SBO, identifying the specific operations and small boats, or class of boats, for which that SBO is qualified.

The authorization form must be signed and maintained on file by the VOC.

Personnel-in-training for SBO or Crewmember designation may control the small boat under the direct supervision of an OIC.

.04 Requirements for Operations of Non-NOAA Vessels

NOAA Employees operating private small boats Class II and below: Small boats must meet all federal, state, and local regulations as applicable to the small boat and operation. NOAA personnel must comply with the lifesaving requirements outlined in Section 10 in this Manual to include Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), communication, distress signals, and first aid equipment. This may require NOAA personnel to bring this equipment if not provided by the small boat. NOAA Personnel operating these small boats must follow the requirements in Sections 5, 6, 7, and 8 of this Manual. Operations more than 12 hours require LOSBO approval. All vessels must be entered into VIM and float plans filed in VOP.

NOAA Employees operating other government agency, university, non-governmental agencies small boats: Small boats must meet the host agency’s regulations and operations under a prearranged and defined agreement. The agreement must state equipment carriage, operational parameters, and maintenance responsibilities.

Operations and equipment carriage must meet or exceed NOAA’s requirements outlined in this Manual. NOAA Personnel operating these small boats must follow requirements in Sections 5, 6, 7, and 8 of this Manual. This is limited to Class A, I, and II small boats. Operations more than 12 hours require LOSBO approval. All vessels must be entered into VIM and float plans filed in VOP.

.05 External References

The Small Boat Program uses standards derived from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), OSHA, and American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), International Standards Organization (ISO). Particularly 46 CFR Subchapter T for vessels below 100 GT and 46 CFR Subchapter U for vessels more than 100 GT.

These external sources ensure that NOAA small boats are held to and above industry standards leading to the highest level of safety for embarked personnel.

.06 Minimum Age Requirements

The minimum age requirement is 13 years old. Some small boats may not be suitable for the carriage of personnel due to the configuration and or small boat size. The SBOM contains specific prohibitions or procedures if carrying personnel and specific https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QuNZUZYLcb1zdiy2Fc_tcV_4IsK8JVw4/view?usp=sharing risks identified in the baseline assessment. One additional adult must be aboard for each six minors. Only daytime operations are authorized. Night time or overnight operations are not authorized. Personnel must be included in the safety brief required in Section 8 of this Manual. Provide properly sized lifesaving gear for each person onboard. If needed, carry additional gear to meet this requirement. Do not, at any time, exceed the carrying capacity or minimum lifesaving gear as outlined in the SBOM. Vessels must adhere to life raft capacity, PFDs, and stability limitations without exception.

.07 Foreign Nationals and Controlled Technologies

Foreign Nationals and Controlled Technology onboard small boats must comply with NAO 207-12 – Technology Controls and Foreign National Access.

.08 Seamanship and Personal Conduct

Small boat operations shall be conducted in such a manner as to avoid unnecessary risk, based on best management practices and risk management principles. At all times, operations are conducted to promote a professional and positive public image.

All SBO and Crewmembers must exercise prudent judgment at all times and take proper action when dictated by emergencies that endanger life or property.

.09 Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Related Offenses

The Department of Commerce (DOC) and NOAA do not tolerate discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual harassment and pregnancy discrimination), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age (40 years of age and over), genetic information, or disability (physical or mental), including the provision of reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants and employees with disabilities or genetic information. Retaliation against those who initiate discrimination complaints, serve as witnesses, or otherwise oppose discrimination and harassment is strictly prohibited.

Harassment of any type is a serious issue and will not be tolerated aboard NOAA small boats. Unwelcome comments, gestures, physical contact, or any other behavior that is directed at an individual because of the individual’s membership in a protected class (as described above) is prohibited.

Sexual harassment is a serious issue and will not be tolerated aboard any small boats.

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment when the behavior is:

● Directed at a person because of their sex;

● Unwanted; and

● So severe or pervasive that it interferes with the terms or conditions of employment.

https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-207-12-technology-controls-and-foreign-national-access https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-207-12-technology-controls-and-foreign-national-access https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-207-12-technology-controls-and-foreign-national-access

It is prohibited for any employee to use implicit or explicit coercive sexual behavior to control, influence, or affect the career, salary, or job of an employee.

Any unwanted touching that is sexual in nature is strictly prohibited. Non-physical conduct that is based on sex and unwanted is also prohibited. Sexual harassment may include such actions as:

● Offensive jokes, slurs, epithets, or name calling;

● Intimidation, ridicule, or mockery;

● Insults or put-downs;

● Offensive objects or pictures;

● Interference with work performance;

● Physical contact such as patting, pinching, or brushing against another’s body;

● Physical assaults or threats; or

● Pressure (subtle or overt) for sexual activity or demands for sexual favors, including demands that are accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment or threats concerning an individual’s employment status.

Space constraints in the small boat environment may result in inadvertent physical contact from time to time. However, purposeful physical contact directed at another person because of his or her sex is prohibited in the workplace. Likewise, any intimate physical contact is prohibited in the workplace, even where such contact is consensual in nature.

Additional guidance can be found under DAO 202-955 and NAO 202-1106

.10 Smoking Restrictions

The VOC or OIC may restrict smoking aboard at their discretion. If smoking is allowed aboard the vessel, the VOC or OIC must designate an exterior location that will reduce the impacts to the greatest extent possible to the health and safety of the personnel aboard and mission-related work.

Smoking is not permitted in the vicinity of fuel, flammable/combustible material, or battery storage areas and, such areas must be labeled accordingly. Smoking is not permitted in the vicinity of any ventilation intake ducts. Smoking is prohibited within 50 feet of all NOAA small boats during fueling operations.

.11 Alcohol, Drugs, and Narcotics

The OIC and all Crewmembers must not operate a boat or assist with operations within 8 hours of having consumed alcoholic beverages, narcotics, or drugs that may detrimentally impact cognitive or motor abilities. The consumption of these substances is prohibited on board small boats. With the exception of prescribed narcotics (see Section 3.11), any person under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or narcotics will not be permitted aboard the small boat.

https://www.osec.doc.gov/opog/dmp/daos/dao202_955.html https://www.noaa.gov/organization/administration/nao-202-1106-noaa-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment-prevention-and

.12 Medical and Fitness Considerations

All persons onboard a small boat must be physically and medically qualified for performing the duties to which they are assigned. Some factors to be considered in making work assignments are strength, endurance, agility, coordination, and visual and hearing acuity. The nature of work onboard small boats can pose significant safety hazards to personnel.

● At a minimum, persons must meet the physical requirements for specific job tasks and hazards as required by the position, the job description, applicable DOC regulations, applicable Manual standards, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, or applicable USCG requirements for those licensed mariners.

● Embarked persons with a personal health condition, allergies, or medication that may impact medical response and treatment must provide a health questionnaire form in a sealed envelope to the OIC. This information must remain sealed and confidential unless that individual authorizes its release, or is incapacitated and it is deemed relevant to treatment or first responders in accordance with 5 CFR 293

– Personnel Records and Privacy Act requirements. An example of a health questionnaire is available on the SBP intranet website.

● Any person under a physician’s treatment and taking prescribed narcotics or any medication that may prevent one from being ready, willing, and able to safely perform position duties must provide a medical clearance statement from a physician to their supervisor.

● Written notification to the OIC must be provided if a person is not cleared for assigned duties onboard.

● While onboard, no person shall use or be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, intoxicants, or similar performance or mind-altering substances.

The OIC must assure that potential personal safety, expected environmental conditions, and physical requirements are evaluated and communicated through mission planning and be included in the GAR assessment.

.13 Deviations from the Manual

Emergency situations may warrant actions not addressed in this Manual. Emergency situations consist of conditions that could result in death, physical harm, property loss, or where environmental damage is likely, but only to the extent that the action is immediately necessary in order to prevent or minimize harm. Any deviations from the guidelines in this Manual must be reported to the respective Program Director, LOSBO and VOC within 24 hours.

.14 Review of Applicability and Interpretation of Requirements

This manual is structured to provide standard requirements and guidance across NOAA’s diverse Small Boat fleet and missions. Most of the requirements are https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-NUAZ40JfE55CJOTfQ9BaNT4jbzSkw2c/view?usp=sharing presented by a practical grouping of vessel size, distance from shore, broad mission types, and generalized environmental conditions.

Situations may arise where specific boat configurations, mission details, operating environments, or mitigating circumstances are not adequately addressed in the format of this Manual. In these cases, requests for clarification and interpretation of a requirement or applicability may be elevated to the LOSBO for SBSB consideration.

The Board may also initiate a review of compliance to ensure that the intent of the manual requirements are not misinterpreted or used in a way that compromises overall safety. The Board shall evaluate the specific circumstances and make a final determination based upon equivalency, intent of the manual requirement, and overall safety risk.

.15 Waivers

Waivers may be requested if the standards and procedures prescribed in this Manual cannot be met, or to appeal an Applicability and Interpretation of Requirements decision made by the SBSB, all waivers must be routed through the SBSB. No legally applicable standard or procedure may be waived. To initiate the process, the VOC must submit a written request for a waiver to the Program Director and VPC. The VPC will make any applicable comments and submit the waiver request to their LOSBO. If there is no VPC, the VOC will submit waiver requests directly to the LOSBO. The LOSBO will elevate the waiver request to the SBSB.