other similar material, but they would have to be available in English
and be provided in the form of an instruction placard.
11. Section 160.[subpart number]-21 Operation and maintenance
instructions
    Section 160.[subpart number]-21 would detail the Coast Guard
requirements for the operation and maintenance instructions required by
SOLAS and would specify that the instructions follow the general format
and content specified in IMO MSC.1 Circular 1205, include a checklist
for use in monthly, external visual inspections, and use IMO symbols to
describe location and operation of the equipment. This section also
would provide that the manual may be combined with other similar
material, but it must be available in English.
12. Section 160.[subpart number]-23 Procedure for approval of design,
material, or construction change
    This section would contain the procedures for requesting approval
of a design, material, or construction change to approved equipment
addressed by that subpart. This section proposes that manufacturers
must submit plans for modifying an approved design following the same
procedures as for the original approval set forth in Sec.  160.[subpart
number]-9. This section also would require a prototype be built and
tested, in accordance with Sec. Sec.  160.[subpart number]-11 and
160.[subpart number]-13, unless waived by Commandant (CG-5214) if
deemed appropriate. Finally, this section proposes to explicitly state
that design, material, and construction equivalence determinations may
be made by the Commandant (CG-5214) only.

V. Incorporation by Reference

    Material proposed for incorporation by reference appears in
proposed 46 CFR Sec. Sec.  160.010-1, 160.051-5, 160.115-5, 160.132-5,
160.133-5, 160.135-5, 160.151-5, 160.156-5, 160.170-5, and 164.017-5.
You may inspect this material at U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters where
indicated under ADDRESSES. Copies of the material are available from
the sources listed in paragraph (b) in each of those sections.
    Before publishing a binding rule, the Coast Guard will submit this
material to the Director of the Federal Register for approval of the
incorporation by reference.

VI. Regulatory Analyses

    The Coast Guard developed this proposed rule after considering
numerous statutes and executive orders related to rulemaking. Below the
Coast Guard summarizes these analyses based on 13 of these statutes or
executive orders.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    This proposed rule is not a significant regulatory action under
section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review,
and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits
under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. OMB has not reviewed it under that
Order.
    A ``Preliminary Regulatory Analysis and Initial Regulatory
Flexibility Analysis'' is available in the docket where indicated under
the ``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' section of this
preamble. A summary of the analysis follows:
    As previously discussed, the Coast Guard proposes to amend 46 CFR
part 160 to harmonize its regulations with IMO standards governing
certain types of lifesaving equipment. The Coast Guard also proposes to
incorporate the use of independent laboratories for Coast Guard
approval procedures for certain types of lifesaving equipment,
including requiring the use of independent laboratories at certain
stages of the approval procedures in lieu of Coast Guard personnel who
currently perform these inspections and witness these tests.
    We expect the proposed changes to harmonize existing regulations
with international standards to have no additional costs for
manufacturers of lifesaving equipment. In order for their lifesaving
equipment to be used on vessels for international voyage from any
nation that is a SOLAS signatory, equipment manufacturers must
currently comply with the international standards for lifesaving
equipment established by SOLAS. We expect the proposed rule reflects
existing industry practices adopted in response to these international
standards governing the performance of certain types of lifesaving
equipment.
    We expect the proposed changes to require the use of independent
laboratories in lieu of Coast Guard personnel would result in
additional costs for manufacturers of certain types of lifesaving
equipment.
    Currently, the Coast Guard does not charge for its inspections
(although overseas manufacturing facilities reimburse the Coast Guard
for travel and subsistence costs of Coast Guard inspectors). The use of
independent laboratories required by this proposed rule would create a
new cost for manufacturers of lifesaving equipment. However, the costs
of inspections by independent laboratories would be partially offset by
an overall reduction in the number of inspections made possible through
the coordination of independent laboratories. Manufacturers would be
able to schedule inspections and testing for independent laboratories
acting on behalf of multiple nations, including the U.S., rather than
requiring separate Coast Guard inspections and testing by Coast Guard
inspectors. This coordinated use of independent laboratories would
avoid multiple inspections and testing of the same equipment (see the
``Independent Laboratories'' section for more details) .
    We estimate the annual costs to manufacturers for using independent
laboratories are approximately $130,000 for U.S. firms and
approximately $683,000 for foreign firms (undiscounted). Over a 10-year
period of analysis, we estimate the total present value costs of the
rulemaking are approximately $913,000 for U.S. firms and approximately
$4.8 million for foreign firms, discounted at seven percent. We
estimate the total present value cost of the rulemaking to be about
$5.7 million over a 10-year period of analysis.
    The other proposed changes, not resulting from harmonization with
internal standards or use of independent laboratories, update Coast
Guard regulations to reflect current practice or newer versions of
existing standards and have minimal costs. These include an amendment
specifying the attachment point for sea anchors to liferafts, and the
addition of a new subpart in 46 CFR part 164 addressing resins used in
the construction of lifeboats and rescue boats and incorporating the
use of equivalent

international standards as an alternative to national consensus
standards.
    The benefits of the proposed rule include compliance with U.S.
obligations as a SOLAS signatory and removing inconsistencies between
international standards and the Coast Guard's current regulations. The
proposed rule also provides possible savings for manufacturers from
coordination efficiencies for inspections and increased efficiency for
the Coast Guard from greater flexibility in assigning its human
resources, particularly those stationed at overseas Coast Guard
offices.
    The ``Preliminary Regulatory Analysis and Initial Regulatory
Flexibility Analysis'' available on the docket provides additional
detail on the costs and benefits of this rulemaking. The Coast Guard
urges interested parties to submit comments that specifically address
the economic impacts of this rulemaking. Comments can be made as
indicated in the ADDRESSES section.

B. Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have
considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term ``small
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than
50,000.
    A combined ``Preliminary Regulatory Analysis and Initial Regulatory
Flexibility Analysis'' discussing the impact of this proposed rule on
small entities is available in the docket where indicated under the
``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' section of this
preamble.
    We determined that six of the eight U.S. firms manufacturing
lifesaving equipment are classified as small entities under the Small
Business Administration size standards. We estimate the annual costs to
use independent laboratories is less than 0.5 percent of revenue for
five of the six small entities and less than 1.25 percent of revenue
for one of the six small entities. However, these estimates do not
include adjustments for manufacturer savings from the coordinated use
of independent laboratories that would avoid multiple inspections and
testing of the same equipment (see the ``Independent Laboratories''
section for more details).
    Based on this information, the Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C.
605(b) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities. If you think that
your business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction qualifies as
a small entity and that this rule would have a significant economic
impact on it, please submit a comment to the Docket Management Facility
at the address under ADDRESSES. In your comment, explain why you think
it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would economically
affect it.

C. Assistance for Small Entities

    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small
entities in understanding this proposed rule so that they can better
evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the
proposed rule would affect your small business, organization, or
governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its
provisions or options for compliance, please consult Mr. George Grills,
P.E., Commercial Regulation and Standard Directorate, Office of Design
and Engineering Standards, Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division (CG-
5214), Coast Guard, telephone<PHONE_NUMBER>, or e-mail address
<EMAIL_ADDRESS>The Coast Guard will not retaliate against
small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy
or action of the Coast Guard.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal
employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal
regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory
Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory
Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and
rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to
comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR
(1-888-734-3247).

D. Collection of Information

    This proposed rule would call for no new collection of information
under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520). The
information collected under the proposed rule is addressed in the
existing collection of information, OMB control number 1625-0035, title
46 Subchapter Q: Lifesaving, Electrical, and Engineering Equipment,
Construction and Materials & Marine Sanitation Devices (33 CFR part
159), which was reviewed by OMB on May 27, 2009 and will expire after
the 3-year approval period ending on May 31, 2012, unless renewed. The
proposed rule would increase the total annual collection burden of the
existing collection of information by 1.2 percent. The current
authorized annual burden is 103,289 hours and the proposed rule would
increase the annual burden by approximately 1,221 hours.
    The increase in the annual burden is not considered material or
substantive. To confirm this, the Coast Guard has submitted a change
worksheet (OMB Form 83-C) to OIRA noting the change in the annual
burden. The change worksheet is available in the docket where indicated
under the ``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' section of
this preamble.
    If you submit comments on the collection of information, submit
them both to OMB and to the Docket Management Facility as indicated
under ADDRESSES, by the date under DATES.

E. Federalism

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132,
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local
governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial
direct cost of compliance on them.
    The U.S. Supreme Court has long recognized the field preemptive
impact of the Federal regulatory regime for inspected vessels. See,
e.g., Kelly v. Washington ex rel Foss, 302 U.S. 1 (1937) and the
consolidated cases of United States v. Locke and Intertanko v. Locke,
529 U.S. 89, 113-116 (2000). Therefore the Coast Guard's view is that
regulations issued under the authority of 46 U.S.C. 3306 in the areas
of design, construction, alteration, repair, operation,
superstructures, hulls, fittings, equipment, appliances, propulsion
machinery, auxiliary machinery, boilers, unfired pressure vessels,
piping, electric installations, accommodations for passengers and crew,
sailing school instructors, sailing school students, lifesaving
equipment and its use, firefighting equipment, its use and
precautionary measures to guard against fire, inspections and tests
related to these areas and the use of vessel stores and other supplies
of a dangerous nature have preemptive effect over State regulation in
these fields, regardless of whether the Coast Guard has issued
regulations on the subject or not, and regardless of the existence of
conflict between the State and Coast Guard regulation.
    While it is well settled that States may not regulate in categories
in which Congress intended the Coast Guard to be the sole source of a
vessel's obligations, as these categories are within a field foreclosed
from regulation by the States

(see U.S. v. Locke, above), the Coast Guard recognizes the key role
State and local governments may have in making regulatory
determinations. Additionally, Sections 4 and 6 of Executive Order 13132
require that for any rules with preemptive effect, the Coast Guard
shall provide elected officials of affected State and local governments
and their representative national organizations the notice and
opportunity for appropriate participation in any rulemaking
proceedings, and to consult with such officials early in the rulemaking
process. Therefore, we invite affected State and local governments and
their representative national organizations to indicate their desire
for participation and consultation in this rulemaking process by
submitting comments to the docket using one of the methods specified
under ADDRESSES. In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the Coast
Guard will provide a federalism impact statement to document (1) the
extent of the Coast Guard's consultation with State and local officials
that submit comments to this proposed rule, (2) a summary of the nature
of any concerns raised by State or local governments and the Coast
Guard's position thereon, and (3) a statement of the extent to which
the concerns of State and local officials have been met.

F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538)
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not
result in such an expenditure, the Coast Guard does discuss the effects
of this rule elsewhere in this preamble.

G. Taking of Private Property

    This proposed rule would not effect a taking of private property or
otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630,
Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected
Property Rights.

H. Civil Justice Reform

    This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and
3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize
litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. Protection of Children

    The Coast Guard has analyzed this proposed rule under Executive
Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and
Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and
would not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that
might disproportionately affect children.

J. Indian Tribal Governments

    This proposed rule does not have tribal implications under
Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal
Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal
Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.

K. Energy Effects

    The Coast Guard has analyzed this proposed rule under Executive
Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect
Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. The Coast Guard has determined
that it is not a ``significant energy action'' under that order because
it is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the
supply, distribution, or use of energy.

L. International Trade Impacts

    Under the Trade Agreement Act of 1979 (codified at 19 U.S.C. 2501
et seq.), agencies are prohibited from promulgating any standards or
engaging in related activities that create unnecessary obstacles to
foreign commerce. Because the proposed rule would have an effect on
foreign firms, we have also examined the costs and regulatory action to
determine if it would constitute an unnecessary obstacle to trade.
Because the overall costs are minimal, the requirement for third-party
inspections and testing is uniform across product classes, and the
requirement for independent third-party testing applies to both
domestic and overseas manufacturers, this rule does not constitute an
obstacle to trade or a non-tariff barrier to trade.

M. Technical Standards

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15
U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards
in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress,
through OMB, with an explanation of why using these standards would be
inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary
consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., specifications of
materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling
procedures; and related management systems practices) that are
developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies.
    This proposed rule uses the following voluntary consensus
standards:
     ASTM A 36/A 36M-08 Standard Specification for Carbon
Structural Steel;
     ASTM A 216/A 216M-08 Standard Specification for Steel
Castings, Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding for High-Temperature
Service;
     ASTM A 653/A 653M-08 Standard Specification for Steel
Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated
(Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process;
     ASTM B 127-05(2009) Standard Specification for Nickel-
Copper Alloy (UNS N04400) Plate, Sheet, and Strip;
     ASTM B 209-07 Standard Specification for Aluminum and
Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate;
     ASTM D 543-06 Standard Test Method for Resistance of
Plastics to Chemical Reagents;
     ASTM D 570-98(2005) Standard Test Method for Water
Absorption of Plastics;
     ASTM D 638-08 Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties
of Plastics;
     ASTM D 695-08 Standard Test Method for Compressive
Properties of Rigid Plastics;
     ASTM D 790-07e1 Standard Test Methods for Flexural
Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical
Insulating Materials;
     ASTM D 792-08 Standard Test Methods for Density and
Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement;
     ASTM D 1045-08 Standard Methods of Sampling and Testing
Plasticizers used in Plastics;
     ASTM D 1824-95(2002) Standard Test Method for Apparent
Viscosity of Plastisols and Organosols at Low Shear Rates;
     ASTM D 2471-99 Standard Test Method for Gel Time and Peak
Exothermic Temperature of Reacting Thermosetting Resins;
     ASTM D 2583-07 Standard Test Method for Indentation
Hardness of Rigid Plastics by Means of a Barcol Impressor;
     ASTM D 2584-08 Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for
Cured Reinforced Resins;
     ASTM D 4029-09 Standard Specification for Finished Woven
Glass Fabrics;

     ASTM F 1014-02(2007) Standard Specification for
Flashlights on Vessels;
     ASTM F 1166-07 Standard Practice for Human Engineering
Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities;
     ASTM G 154-06 Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent
Light Apparatus for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials;
     International Life-Saving Appliance Code, (IMO Resolution
MSC.48(66), as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85));
     IMO Resolution A.657(16) Instructions for Action in
Survival Craft;
     IMO Resolution A.658(16) Use and Fitting of Retro-
reflective Materials on Life-saving Appliances;
     IMO Resolution A.760(18) Symbols Related to Life-Saving
Appliances and Arrangements;
     IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85);
     MSC Circular 980, Standardized life-saving appliance
evaluation and test report forms;
     MSC Circular 1006, Guidelines On Fire Test Procedures For
Acceptance Of Fire-Retardant Materials For The Construction Of
Lifeboats;
     MSC.1 Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation
and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems;
     ISO 62:2008 Plastics--Determination of water absorption;
     ISO 175:1999 Plastics--Methods of test for the
determination of the effects of immersion in liquid chemicals;
     ISO 14125:1998 Fibre-reinforced plastic composites--
Determination of flexural properties;
     ISO 527-1:1993 Plastics--Determination of tensile
properties;
     ISO 604:2002 Plastics--Determination of compressive
properties;
     ISO 1172:1996 Textile-glass-reinforced plastics--Prepregs,
moulding compounds and laminates--Determination of the textile-glass
and mineral-filler content--Calcination methods;
     ISO 1183-1:2004 Plastics--Methods for determining the
density of non-cellular plastics--Part 1: Immersion method, liquid
pyknometer method and titration method;
     ISO 1675:1985 Plastics--Liquid resins--Determination of
density by the pyknometer method;
     ISO 2039-1:2001 Determination of hardness--Part 1: Ball
indentation method;
     ISO 2039-2:1987 Determination of hardness--Part 2:
Rockwell hardness;
     ISO 2114:2000 Plastics (polyester resins) and paints and
varnishes (binders)--Determination of partial acid value and total acid
value;
     ISO 2535:2001 Plastics--Unsaturated-polyester resins--
Measurement of gel time at ambient temperature;
     ISO 2555:1989 Plastics--Resins in the liquid state or as
emulsions or dispersions--Determination of apparent viscosity by the
Brookfield test method;
     ISO 15372:2000 Ships and marine technology--Inflatable
rescue boats--Coated fabrics for inflatable chambers;
     ISO 15738:2002 Ships and marine technology--Gas inflation
systems for inflatable life-saving appliances;
     ISO 17339:2002 Ships and marine technology--Sea anchors
for survival craft and rescue boats;
     ISO 18813:2006 Ships and marine technology--Survival
equipment for survival craft and rescue boats;
     SAE J1527-93, Marine Fuel Hoses;
     UL 1102, Standard for Nonintegral Marine Fuel Tanks; and
     UL 1185, Standard for Portable Marine Fuel Tanks.
    The proposed sections that reference these standards and the
locations where these standards are available are listed in 46 CFR
160.010-1, 160.115-5, 160.132-5, 160.133-5, 160.135-5, 160.151-5,
160.156-5, 160.170-5, and 164.017-5.
    This proposed rule also uses technical standards other than
voluntary consensus standards. The Coast Guard proposes to use the
below-listed standards issued by the Department of Defense and the
General Services Administration because the Coast Guard did not find
voluntary consensus standards that fulfill the purpose of these
standards as applicable to the proposed rule:
     A-A 55308 Cloth And Strip, Laminated Or Coated, Vinyl
Nylon Or Polyester, High Strength, Flexible;
     Federal Standard 595C--Colors Used in Government
Procurement;
     MIL-C-17415E--Cloth, Coated, and Webbing, Inflatable Boat
and Miscellaneous Use;
     MIL-C-19663D: Cloth, Woven Roving, For Plastic Laminate, 4
AUG 1998;
     MIL-P-17549D(SH): Plastics Laminates, Fibrous Glass
Reinforced, Marine, 31 AUG 1981;
     MIL-P-19644 C--Plastic Molding Material (Polystyrene Foam,
Expanded Bead);
     MIL-P-21929 B--Plastic Material, Cellular Polyurethane,
Foam-In-Place, Rigid (2 and 4 Pounds per Cubic Foot);
     MIL-P-40619 A--Plastic Material, Cellular, Polystyrene
(For Buoyancy Applications);
     MIL-R-7575 C, Resin, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating,
29 June 1966;
     MIL-R-21607E(SH), Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure
Laminating, Fire-Retardant; 25 May 1990; and
     MIL-R-24719(SH), Resins, Vinyl Ester, Low Pressure
Laminating, 4 May 1989.
    If you disagree with our analysis of the voluntary consensus
standards listed above or are aware of voluntary consensus standards
that might apply but are not listed, please send a comment to the
docket using one of the methods under ADDRESSES. In your comment,
please explain why you disagree with our analysis and/or identify
voluntary consensus standards the Coast Guard has not listed that might
apply.

N. Environment

    The Coast Guard has analyzed this proposed rule under Department of
Homeland Security Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction
M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and
have made a preliminary determination that this action is one of a
category of actions which do not individually or cumulatively have a
significant effect on the human environment. A preliminary
environmental analysis checklist supporting this determination is
available in the docket where indicated under the ``Public
Participation and Request for Comments'' section of this preamble. This
rule involves requiring manufacturers of lifesaving equipment to use
qualified independent laboratories and updating technical requirements
for some lifesaving equipment. As such, it would be categorically
excluded under Section 2.B.b, Figure 2.1 paragraph (34)(b) and (d), of
the Instruction, which covers regulations concerning delegating
authority, manning, documents, admeasurements, inspection, and
equipping of vessels; and paragraph 6(a) of the National Environmental
Policy Act: Coast Guard Procedures for Categorical Exclusions (67 FR
141, 48243 (July 23, 2002)), which covers regulations concerning vessel
operation safety standards because this rule pertains to regulations
concerning delegating authority and the inspection and equipping of
vessels, as well as vessel operation safety standards, equipment
approval, and equipment carriage requirements. The Coast Guard seeks
any comments or information that may lead to the discovery of a
significant environmental impact from this proposed rule.

List of Subjects

46 CFR Part 108

    Fire prevention, Marine safety, Occupational safety and health, Oil
and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 117

    Marine safety, Passenger vessels.

46 CFR Part 133

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.

46 CFR Part 160

    Marine safety, Incorporation by reference, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 164

    Fire prevention, Incorporation by reference, Marine safety,
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 180

    Marine safety, Passenger vessels.

46 CFR Part 199

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Oil and gas exploration, Passenger
vessels, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes
to amend 46 CFR parts 108, 117, 133, 160, 164, 180, and 199 as follows:

PART 108--DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT

    1. The authority citation for part 108 continues to read as
follows:

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 3102, 3306; Department of
Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

    2. Revise Sec.  108.550(a) to read as follows:

Sec.  108.550  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements:
General.

    (a)(1) Each launching appliance must be a davit approved under 46
CFR part 160, subpart 160.132 for use with the intended craft, with a
winch approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.115 for use with the
intended craft.
    (2) Each launching appliance for a davit-launched liferaft must
include an automatic disengaging apparatus approved under 46 CFR part
160, subpart 160.170 and be either--
    (i) A launching appliance described in (a)(1) of this section; or
    (ii) A launching appliance approved on or before (EFFECTIVE DATE OF
FINAL RULE) under approval series 160.163.
* * * * *

PART 117--LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT AND ARRANGEMENTS

    3. The authority citation for part 117 continues to read as
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR,
1980 Comp., p. 277; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No.
0170.1.

    4. In Sec.  117.150, revise paragraph (a) and add paragraph (c) to
read as follows:

Sec.  117.150  Survival craft embarkation arrangements.

    (a) A launching appliance described in paragraph (c) of this
section, or a marine evacuation system approved under approval series
160.175, must be provided for each inflatable liferaft and inflatable
buoyant apparatus when either--
* * * * *
    (c) Each launching appliance for a davit-launched liferaft must
include an automatic disengaging apparatus approved under 46 CFR part
160, subpart 160.170 and be either--
    (1) A davit approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.132 for use
with a liferaft, with a winch approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart
160.115 for use with a liferaft; or
    (2) A launching appliance approved on or before (EFFECTIVE DATE OF
FINAL RULE) under approval series 160.163.

PART 133--LIFESAVING SYSTEMS

    5. The authority citation for part 133 continues to read as
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3307; Department of Homeland Security
Delegation No. 0170.1.

    6. Revise Sec.  133.150(b) to read as follows:

Sec.  133.150  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements:
General.

* * * * *
    (b)(1) Each launching appliance must be a davit approved under 46
CFR part 160, subpart 160.132 for use with the intended craft, with a
winch approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.115 for use with the
intended craft.
    (2) Each launching appliance for a davit-launched liferaft must
include an automatic disengaging apparatus approved under 46 CFR part
160, subpart 160.170 and be either--
    (i) A launching appliance described in (b)(1) of this section; or
    (ii) A launching appliance approved on or before (EFFECTIVE DATE OF
FINAL RULE) under approval series 160.163.
* * * * *

PART 160--LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT

    7. The authority citation for part 160 continues to read as
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703 and 4302; E.O. 12234, 45
FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart 160.010--Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant Vessels

    8. Revise Sec.  160.010-1 to read as follows:

Sec.  160.010-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to
the public. All approved material is available for inspection at the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at COMMANDANT (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100 2ND ST, SW., STOP 7126,
WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126 and is available from the sources indicated
in this section.
    (b) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service,
Office of the FAS Commissioner, 22200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor,
Arlington, VA 22202,<PHONE_NUMBER>.
    (1) Federal Standard 595C--Colors Used in Government Procurement,
IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``FED-STD-595C'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications
Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20
7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution MSC.48(66), International Life-Saving Appliance
Code, as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-3 (``IMO LSA Code'').
    (2) IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), IMO Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-3 (``IMO
Revised recommendation on testing'').
    (d) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Order
Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue,

Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) MIL-P-19644 C--Plastic Molding Material (Polystyrene Foam,
Expanded Bead), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-P-19644 C'').
    (2) MIL-P-21929 B--Plastic Material, Cellular Polyurethane, Foam-
In-Place, Rigid (2 and 4 Pounds per Cubic Foot), IBR approved for Sec.
160.010-5 (``MIL-P-21929 B'').
    (3) MIL-P-40619 A--Plastic Material, Cellular, Polystyrene (For
Buoyancy Applications), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-P-40619
A'').
    (4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating,
Fire-Retardant, 25 May 1990, IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-R-
21607E(SH)'').
    9. In Sec.  160.010-2, revise the definition for ``Commandant'' to
read as follows:

Sec.  160.010-2  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100
2ND ST, SW., STOP 7126, WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126.
* * * * *
    10. Sec.  In 160.010-3--
    a. In paragraph (a)(1), remove the words ``(SOLAS Chapter III,
regulation 38, paragraph 1.5 (III/38.1.5))'' and add, in their place,
the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS> (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.010-1))'';
    b. In paragraph (a)(2), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
38.2.1)'' and add, in their place, the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>)'';
    c. In paragraph (a)(3), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
39.2.2)'' and add, in their place, the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>)'';
    d. In paragraph (a)(4), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
39.5.1)'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    e. In paragraph (a)(5), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
39.5.2)'' and add, in their place, the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>)'';
    f. In paragraph (a)(9), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
39.4.1)'' and add, in their place, the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>)'';
    g. In paragraph (a)(10), remove the words ``(Regulation III/
39.4.2)'' and add, in their place, the words ``(IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/<IP_ADDRESS>)'';
    h. In paragraph (a)(11), remove the symbol ``Sec.  '' and add, in
its place, the words ``46 CFR''; and remove the words ``of this
subchapter'';
    i. In paragraph (a)(12), in the introductory text after the word
``Equipment'', remove the words ``(Regulation III/38.5.1)''; and in the
last sentence in the introductory text, remove the words ``Regulation
III/38.5.1'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter
IV/4.1.5'';
    j. In paragraph (a)(13), remove the words ``(Regulations III/
<IP_ADDRESS>, III/<IP_ADDRESS>, and III/39.8.6)''; after the words
``requirements of Sec.  160.151-33'', add the words ``as well as IMO
LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS> and <IP_ADDRESS>.6''; and remove the words
``regulation III/39.8.6'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA
Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>.6'';
    k. In paragraph (a)(14), remove the words ``IMO Resolution
A.689(17)'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO Revised
recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see Sec.
160.010-1)'';
    l. In paragraphs (a)(15) and (a)(16), remove the words ``IMO
Resolution A.689(17)'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO Revised
recommendation on testing'';
    m. In paragraph (e) introductory text, remove the words ``under the
IMO International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft (HSC Code)''; and
remove the words ``Annex 10 to the HSC Code'' and add, in their place,
the words ``Annex 11 to IMO Res. MSC.97(73)''; and
    n. Add paragraph (e)(9) to read as follows:

Sec.  160.010-3  Inflatable buoyant apparatuses.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (9) Stability. It must be fitted with stability pockets, in
accordance with IMO LSA Code Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>.

Sec.  160.010-4  [Amended]

    11. In Sec.  160.010-4--
    a. In paragraph (g), remove the word ``(1/4in.)'' and add, in its
place, the words ``(1/4 in.)''; and
    b. In paragraph (n), remove the words ``sections 13 and 14 of the
``Color Names Dictionary'''' and add, in their place, the words
``sections 13 and 14 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.010-1)''.

Sec.  160.010-5  [Amended]

    12. In Sec.  160.010-5--
    a. In paragraph (b) introductory text, remove the text ``(CG-521)''
and add, in its place, the text ``(CG-5214)'';
    b. In paragraph (b)(2), remove the text ``MIL-P-19644'' and add, in
its place, the text ``MIL-P-19644 C (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.010-1)'';
    c. In paragraph (b)(3), remove the text ``MIL-P-21929'' and add, in
its place, the text ``MIL-P-21929 B (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.010-1)'';
    d. In paragraph (b)(4), remove the text ``MIL-P-40619'' and add, in
its place, the text ``MIL-P-40619 A (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.010-1)'';
    e. In paragraph (c)(1), remove the text ``MIL-P-21607'' and add, in
its place, the text ``MIL-P-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.010-1)''; and remove the text ``(G-MSE)'' and add, in its
place, the text ``(CG-5214)''; and
    f. In paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(3), remove the text ``(CG-521)''
and add, in its place, the text ``(CG-5214)''.

Sec.  160.010-7  [Amended]

    13. In Sec.  160.010-7(a), remove the text ``CG-512'' and add, in
its place, the text ``CG-5214''.

Subpart 160.015 [Removed and Reserved]

    14. Remove and reserve subpart 160.015.

Subpart 160.032 [Removed and Reserved]

    15. Remove and reserve subpart 160.032.

Subpart 160.033 [Removed and Reserved]

    16. Remove and reserve subpart 160.033.

Subpart 160.035 [Removed and Reserved]

    17. Remove and reserve subpart 160.035.

Subpart 160.051--Inflatable Liferafts for Domestic Service

    18. Revise Sec.  160.051-1 to read as follows:

Sec.  160.051-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart prescribes requirements for approval by the Coast
Guard of A, B, and Coastal Service inflatable liferafts for use only in
domestic service. These liferafts must comply with all of the
requirements for SOLAS A and SOLAS B liferafts in subpart 160.151
except as specified in this subpart.
    (b) This subpart does not apply to any A, B, and Coastal Service
inflatable liferaft for use only in domestic service that has been
approved by the Coast Guard before (EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE), so
long as the liferaft satisfies the annual servicing requirements set
forth in 46 CFR 160.151-57.
    19. In Sec.  160.051-3, add the definition for ``Commandant'', in
alphabetical order, as follows:

Sec.  160.051-3  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100
2ND ST SW., STOP 7126, WASHINGTON, DC 20593-1726.
    20. Redesignate Sec. Sec.  160.051-5, 160.051-7, and 160.051-9 as
Sec. Sec.  160.051-7, 160.051-9, and 160.051-11, respectively.
    21. Add new Sec.  160.051-5 to read as follows:

Sec.  160.051-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. 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 the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at COMMANDANT (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100 2ND ST SW., STOP 7126,
WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126 and is available from the sources indicated
in this section.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section,
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution MSC.48(66), International Life-Saving Appliance
Code, as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.051-7 and 160.051-9 (``IMO
LSA Code'').
    (2) IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), IMO Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.051-7,
160.051-9, and 160.051-11 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing'').

Sec.  160.051-7  [Amended]

    22. In newly redesignated Sec.  160.051-7--
    a. In paragraph (a), remove the words ``Regulation III/38.1.5'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>,
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.051-5)'';
    b. In paragraph (b), remove the first instance of the words
``Regulation III/<IP_ADDRESS>'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO
LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>.5''; and after the words ``the viewing
port'', remove the words ``described in Regulation III/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    c. In paragraph (c), remove the first instance of the words
``Regulation III/<IP_ADDRESS>'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO
LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>.6''; and after the words ``means of
rainwater collection'', remove the words ``described in Regulation III/
<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    d. In paragraph (d), remove the words ``Regulation III/38.2.1'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    e. In paragraph (e), remove the words ``Regulation III/39.2.2'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    f. In paragraph (f), remove the words ``Regulation III/39.4.1'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    g. In paragraph (g), remove the words ``Regulation III/39.5.1'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/4.2.5'';
    h. In paragraph (h), remove the first instance of the words
``Regulation III/39.6.3'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA
Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>''; and after the words ``controlled interior
lamp'', remove the words ``described in Regulation III/39.6.3'';
    i. In paragraph (i), remove the words ``Regulations III/<IP_ADDRESS>
and III/<IP_ADDRESS>'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code,
Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>'';
    j. In paragraph (j), remove the words ``IMO Resolution A.689(17)''
and add, in their place, the words ``IMO Revised recommendation on
testing (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.051-5)''; and
    k. In paragraphs (k) and (l), remove the words ``IMO Resolution
A.689(17)'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO Revised
recommendation on testing''.

Sec.  160.051-9  [Amended]

    23. In newly redesignated Sec.  160.051-9--
    a. In paragraph (a), remove the words ``Regulation III/38.2.1'' and
add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>''; and
    b. In paragraph (b), remove the words ``Regulations III/<IP_ADDRESS>
and III/<IP_ADDRESS>'' and add, in their place, the words ``IMO LSA Code,
Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>''.

Sec.  160.051-11  [Amended]

    24. In newly redesignated Sec.  160.051-11, in paragraph (f),
remove the words ``IMO Resolution A.689(17)'' and add, in their place,
the words ``IMO Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.051-5)''.
    25. Add subpart 160.115 to read as follows:
Subpart 160.115--Launching Appliances--Winches
Sec.
160.115-1 Scope.
160.115-3 Definitions.
160.115-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.115-7 Design, construction, and performance of winches.
160.115-9 Preapproval review.
160.115-11 [Reserved]
160.115-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.
160.115-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of winches.
160.115-17 Marking and labeling.
160.115-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.
160.115-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.115-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

Subpart 160.115--Launching Appliances--Winches

Sec.  160.115-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for
seeking Coast Guard approval of a winch used in conjunction with a
davit approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.132 for lifeboats
approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.135, liferafts approved
under 46 CFR part 160, subparts 160.051 or 160.151, and rescue boats
approved under 46 CFR part 160, subparts 160.056 or 160.156.

Sec.  160.115-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.115-5), in this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100
2ND ST. SW., STOP 7126, WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Officer In Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who, under the
direction of the Coast Guard District Commander, is in charge of a
marine inspection zone, described in part 1 of this chapter, for the
performance of duties with respect to the inspection, enforcement, and
administration of vessel safety and navigation laws and regulations.
The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the OCMI who has immediate

jurisdiction over a vessel for the purpose of performing the duties
previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Sea, 1974, as amended.

Sec.  160.115-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. 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 the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at COMMANDANT (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100 2ND ST. SW., STOP 7126,
WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126 and is available from the sources indicated
in this section.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section,
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving
Appliances and Arrangements, IBR approved for Sec.  160.115-19 (``IMO
Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution MSC.48(66), International Life-Saving Appliance
Code, as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85), IBR approved for Sec.  160.115-7 (``IMO LSA Code'').
    (3) IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), IMO Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.115-7,
160.115-13, and 160.115-15 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing'').
    (4) MSC Circular 980, Standardized life-saving appliance evaluation
and test report forms, IBR approved for Sec.  160.115-13 (``IMO MSC
Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1 Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, IBR approved for Sec.
160.115-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

Sec.  160.115-7  Design, construction, and performance of winches.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a winch, a manufacturer must
comply with, and each winch must meet, the requirements of the
following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter I/1.2.2 and Chapter VI/6.1.1 and 6.1.2
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5) applicable to the
design and intended service of the winch;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/8.1 (incorporated
by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5) applicable to the winch;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each winch must meet each of the following requirements:
    (1) Materials. (i) All gears must be machine cut and made of steel,
bronze, or other suitable materials properly keyed to shafts. The use
of cast iron is not permitted for these parts.
    (ii) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic
corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
    (iii) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware,
securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter
pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift.
    (2) Bearings and gears. (i) Positive means of lubrication must be
provided for all bearings.
    (ii) When worm gears are used, the worm wheel must operate in an
oil bath. Means to easily check the oil level in the gear case must be
provided.
    (iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart and a plate
attached to the winch indicating the lubricant recommended for extremes
in temperature.
    (3) Guards. All moving parts must have suitable guards.
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the
Commandant, American Bureau of Shipping, U.S. Navy, or an independent
laboratory accepted by the Commandant. Only electrodes intended for use
with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked
using appropriate non-destructive tests.
    (5) Winch drums. (i) A winch must have grooved drums unless
otherwise approved by the Commandant.
    (ii) The diameter of the drums must be at least 16 times the
diameter of the falls.
    (iii) Drums must be so arranged as to keep the falls separate, and
to pay out the falls at the same rate. Clutches between drums are not
permitted unless bolted locking devices are used.
    (6) Winch motors. For a winch powered by electric or hydraulic
motors, or portable power units such as air or electric drills--
    (i) Positive means must be provided for controlling the power to
the winch, arranged so that the operator must hold the master switch or
controller in the ``on'' or ``hoist'' position for hoisting, and when
released, will immediately shut off the power;
    (ii) A clutch must be fitted to disengage the power installation
during the lowering operation;
    (iii) A means must be provided to disconnect power to the winch
before a hand crank can be engaged with the winch operating shaft, and
this interruption of power must be maintained while the hand crank is
so engaged;
    (iv) The air or electric power outlet for a portable power unit
must be located adjacent to the winch where the unit is to be coupled,
and the outlet must be interconnected with, and protected by, the same
system of safety devices as required for a winch with built-in-motors;
    (v) A main line emergency disconnect switch, the opening of which
disconnects all electrical potential to the winch, must be provided.
This switch must be located in a position accessible to the person in
charge of the boat stowage and must be in a position from which the
movement of both davit arms can be observed as they approach the final
stowed position;
    (vi) Limit switches, one for each davit arm, must be provided to
limit the travel of the davit arms as they approach the final stowed
position. These switches must--
    (A) Be so arranged that the opening of either switch will
disconnect all electrical potential of the circuit in which the
switches are connected;
    (B) Be arranged to stop the travel of the davit arms not less than
12 inches from their final stowed position; and
    (C) Remain open until the davit arms move outboard beyond the
tripping position of the switches;
    (vii) Motor clutches, when used, must be of either frictional or
positive engaging type. When one motor is used for two winches, the
clutch must be so arranged that only one winch may be engaged at any
one time. The clutch operating lever must be capable of remaining in
any position when subject to vibration and must be so arranged that
when in neutral position both lifeboats may be lowered simultaneously;
    (viii) Motors, switches, controls, and cables must be waterproof if
installed on an open deck. Controls may be of the

drip-proof type if installed in a deck house or under deck;
    (ix) Hydraulic systems must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58,
subpart 58.30; and
    (x) Electrical installations must comply with 46 CFR 111.01-9,
111.01-11, 111.01-19, 111.25, 111.55, 111.70, and 111.95.
    (7) Quick return. For a winch used to launch an inflatable liferaft
means must be provided for rapidly retrieving the falls by hand power.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

Sec.  160.115-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a
winch, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant
meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To
meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must
submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number,
title, revision number, and issue date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
    (4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in
Sec. Sec.  160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart;
    (5) A description of the quality control procedures and
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the winch, which
must include, but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints,
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of
fabrication to assure that the approved winch complies with the
approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the winch complies
with the requirements of this subpart;
    (7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the winch will be
constructed; and
    (8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.115-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review
required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is
conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the
independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart
159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this
section in sufficient detail to show that the winch meets the
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed winch;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or
construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly
indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not
comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

Sec.  160.115-11  [Reserved]

Sec.  160.115-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted
in accordance with Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the
prototype winch and the approval inspections and tests required under
this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required
under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or
testing is performed on winches or their component parts and materials
for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.115-9 of this
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is
constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans
reviewed under Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are
appropriately qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the
manufacturer is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the
production of winches, together with records identifying the lot or
serial numbers of the winches in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests--(1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each
prototype winch of each design must pass each of the tests described in
IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, paragraph 8.1
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5) applicable to winches.
    (2) Visual inspection. Each winch must be visually inspected to
confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (3) Hydraulic controls. If the winch motor includes a fluid power
and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted
in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a winch

similar in construction to a winch that has successfully completed the
tests.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with
the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and
Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.115-5). The report must include a signed
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as
permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the
testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing
and its results; and
    (2) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.115-9
of this subpart in triplicate.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant,
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

Sec.  160.115-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of winches.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent
laboratory must conduct or witness inspections, tests, and oversight
required by this section. Production inspections and tests of a winch
must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent
laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this
section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and
inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests
and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all
production winches are produced to the same standard, and in the same
manner, as the prototype winch approved by the Commandant. The
manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under
the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section)
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each winch
constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this
section); and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the winch, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the
construction of the winch are in accordance with plans approved under
Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where
materials are stored for the winch, work or testing is performed on
winches or their component parts and materials, or records are retained
to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, below, for
the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer
is satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard
inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the
winches are being made in accordance with the plans approved under
Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this
subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records
of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date
of termination of approval of each winch. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and
certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved winch;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved
winches, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the
winches in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production winch, along with records
of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each winch and the vessel on which it
was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent
laboratory must perform or witness the inspections and tests under this
section for each Coast Guard-approved winch to be installed on a U.S.
flag vessel. If the manufacturer also produces winches for approval by
other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be
coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests.
    (1) Each approved winch must be inspected and tested in accordance
with the procedures in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and the brake
test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 2,
paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5).
    (2) The lowering tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on
testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1 may be performed if the installation
height is known. If these tests are performed, the results must be in
accordance with 46 CFR 199.153(h) through (j).

Sec.  160.115-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each winch must be marked with a plate or label permanently
affixed in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and
sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental
conditions at sea for the life of the winch.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;

    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype
or production tests;
    (4) Serial number of the winch;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Safe working load of the winch; and
    (8) Word ``SOLAS''.

Sec.  160.115-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each winch must have instructions and information for the
ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18)
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5) to describe the
location and operation of the winch.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft
and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
    (c) The winch manufacturer must make operating instructions and
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in
English to the purchaser of a winch approved by the Coast Guard.

Sec.  160.115-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each winch must have operation and maintenance instructions
that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual
inspections of the winch.
    (b) The winch manufacturer must make the manual required by
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of
a winch approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by
paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for
survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.

Sec.  160.115-23  Procedure for approval of design or material change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this
subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any
production winch. The manufacturer must submit any such change
following the procedures in Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart, but
documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under
46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be
resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a
prototype winch with each change described in paragraph (a) of this
section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.115-9 through 160.115-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and
materials will be made by the Commandant only.
    26. Add subpart 160.132 to read as follows:
Subpart 160.132--Launching Appliances--Davits
Sec.
160.132-1 Scope.
160.132-3 Definitions.
160.132-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.132-7 Design, construction, and performance of davits.
160.132-9 Preapproval review.
160.132-11 [Reserved]
160.132-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype davits.
160.132-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of davits.
160.132-17 Marking and labeling.
160.132-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.
160.132-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.132-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

Subpart 160.132--Launching Appliances--Davits

Sec.  160.132-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for
seeking Coast Guard approval of a davit used in conjunction with a
winch approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.115 for lifeboats
approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.135, liferafts approved
under 46 CFR part 160, subparts 160.051 or 160.151, and rescue boats
approved under 46 CFR part 160, subparts 160.056 or 160.156.

Sec.  160.132-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5), in this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100
2ND ST SW., STOP 7126, WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 169.001-3. A
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Officer In Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who, under the
direction of the Coast Guard District Commander, is in charge of a
marine inspection zone, described in part 1 of this chapter, for the
performance of duties with respect to the inspection, enforcement, and
administration of vessel safety and navigation laws and regulations.
The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over
a vessel for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Sea, 1974, as amended.

Sec.  160.132-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. 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 the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at COMMANDANT (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100 2ND ST SW., STOP 7126,
WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126 and is available from the sources indicated
in this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr
Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08 Standard Specification for Carbon Structural
Steel, IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-7 (``ASTM A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 216/A 216M-08 Standard Specification for Steel Castings,
Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding for High-Temperature Service, IBR
approved for Sec.  160.132-7 (``ASTM A 216'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section,
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving
Appliances and Arrangements, IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-19 (``IMO
Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), IMO Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.132-7,
160.132-13, and 160.132-

15 (``IMO revised recommendation on testing'').
    (3) IMO Resolution MSC.48(66), International Life-Saving Appliance
Code, as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85), IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-7 (``IMO LSA Code'').
    (4) MSC Circular 980, Standardized life-saving appliance evaluation
and test forms, IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-13 (``IMO MSC Circ.
980'').
    (5) MSC.1 Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, IBR approved for Sec.
160.132-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

Sec.  160.132-7  Design, construction, and performance of davits.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a davit, a manufacturer must
comply with, and each davit must meet, the requirements of following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code Chapter I/1.2.2 and Chapter VI/6.1.1 through 6.1.5
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5) applicable to the
design and intended service of the davit;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/8.1 (incorporated
by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5) applicable to the design and
intended service of the davit;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each davit must meet the following requirements--
    (1) Materials. Each major structural component of each davit must
be constructed of steel. Other materials may be used if accepted by the
Commandant as equivalent or superior--
    (i) Structural steel made by the open-hearth or electric furnace
process must be in accordance with ASTM A 36 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5);
    (ii) Steel castings not intended for fusion welding must be in
accordance with ASTM A 36, Grades U-60-30, 60-30, 65-30, 65-35, and 70-
36;
    (iii) Steel castings intended to be fabricated by fusion welding
must be in accordance with ASTM A 216 (incorporated by reference, see
Sec.  160.132-5), Grades WCA and WCB;
    (iv) Cast iron must not be used in the construction of a davit; and
    (v) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic
corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
    (2) Bearings. (i) Bearings must be of non-ferrous metal, or must be
of the roller or ball-bearing type;
    (ii) Positive means of lubrication must be provided; and
    (iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart for each
davit together with a plate attached to the davit indicating the
lubricants recommended for extremes in temperature;
    (3) Guards. All moving parts must have guards;
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the
Commandant, American Bureau of Shipping, U.S. Navy, or an independent
laboratory accepted by the Commandant. Only electrodes intended for use
with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked
using appropriate non-destructive tests; and
    (5) Hydraulic systems, if installed, must be in accordance with 46
CFR part 58, subpart 58.30.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

Sec.  160.132-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a
davit, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant
meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To
meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must
submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number,
title, revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
    (4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in
Sec. Sec.  160.132-19 and 160.132-21 of this subpart;
    (5) A description of the quality control procedures and
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the davit, which
must include, but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints,
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of
fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with
the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the davit complies
with the requirements of this subpart;
    (7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the davit will be
constructed; and
    (8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.132-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review
required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is
conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the
independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this
section in sufficient detail to show that the davit meets the
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed davit;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or
construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly
indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not
comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

Sec.  160.132-11  [Reserved]

Sec.  160.132-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype davits.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted
in accordance with Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to
the Commandant, the manufacturer may

proceed with fabrication of the prototype davit, and the approval
inspections and tests required under this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required
under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule with the cognizant OCMI that allows
for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is
to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or
testing is performed on davits or their component parts and materials
for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.132-9 of this
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is
constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans
reviewed under Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart and the welders are
appropriately qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the
manufacturer is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the
production of davits, together with records identifying the lot or
serial numbers of the davits in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests--(1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each
prototype davit of each design must pass each of the tests described in
IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, paragraph 8.1
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5) applicable to the
design and service of the davit.
    (2) Visual inspection. Each davit must be visually inspected to
confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (3) Hydraulic controls. If the davit design includes a fluid power
and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted
in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a davit
similar in construction to a davit that has successfully completed the
tests.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with
the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and
Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5). The report must include a signed
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as
permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing,
indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its
results; and
    (2) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.132-9
of this subpart in triplicate.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant,
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

Sec.  160.132-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of davits.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent
laboratory must conduct or witness inspections, tests, and oversight
required by this section. Production inspections and tests of davits
must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent
laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this
section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and
inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests
and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all
production davits are produced to the same standard, and in the same
manner, as the prototype davit approved by the Commandant. The
manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under
the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section),
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each davit
constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this
section); and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the davit, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the
construction of the davit are in accordance with plans approved under
Sec.  160.132-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where
materials are stored for the davit, work or testing is performed on
davits or their component parts and materials, or records are retained
to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, below, for
the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer
is satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard
inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the
davits are being made in accordance with the plans approved under Sec.
160.132-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records
of all

items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of
termination of approval of each davit. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and
certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved davit;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved
davits, together with records identifying the serial numbers of davits
in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production davit, along with records
of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each davit and the vessel on which it
was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent
laboratory must perform or witness the inspections and tests under this
section for each Coast Guard-approved davit to be installed on a U.S.-
flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces davits for approval
by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be
coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved davit must be
inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures in 46 CFR part
159, subpart 159.007 and the load test described in IMO Revised
recommendation on testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5).

Sec.  160.132-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each davit must be marked with a plate or label permanently
affixed in a conspicuous place readily for inspection and sufficiently
durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at
sea for the life of the davit.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;
    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype
or production tests;
    (4) Serial number of the davit;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Safe working load of the davit; and
    (8) Word ``SOLAS''.

Sec.  160.132-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each davit must have instructions and information for the
ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18)
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5) to describe the
location and operation of the davit.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft
and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
    (c) The davit manufacturer must make operating instructions and
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in
English to the purchaser of a davit approved by the Coast Guard.

Sec.  160.132-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each davit must have operation and maintenance instructions
that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual
inspections of the davit.
    (b) The davit manufacturer must make the manual required by
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of
a davit approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by
paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for
survival craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.

Sec.  160.132-23  Procedure for approval of design or material change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.132-13(h) of this
subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any
production davit. The manufacturer must submit any such change
following the procedures in Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart, but
documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under
46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be
resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a
prototype davit with each change described in paragraph (a) of this
section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.132-9 through 160.132-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and
materials will be made by the Commandant only.
    27. Add subpart 160.133 to read as follows:
Subpart 160.133--Release Mechanisms for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats
(SOLAS)
Sec.
160.133-1 Scope.
160.133-3 Definitions.
160.133-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.133-7 Design, construction, and performance of release
mechanisms.
160.133-9 Preapproval review.
160.133-11 [Reserved]
160.133-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype release
mechanisms.
160.133-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of release mechanisms.
160.133-17 Marking and labeling.
160.133-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.
160.133-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.133-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

Subpart 160.133--Release Mechanisms for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats
(SOLAS)

Sec.  160.133-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for
seeking Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism used for davit-
launched and free-fall lifeboats approved under 46 CFR part 160,
subpart 160.135, and rescue boats approved under 46 CFR part 160,
subpart 160.156.

Sec.  160.133-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5), in this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100
2nd St SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593-7126.
    Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat
including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of
persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the ``condition
B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A
list of accepted independent laboratories is

available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat
empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent
weight of persons. This is also known as the ``condition A'' weight.
    Officer In Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who, under the
direction of the Coast Guard District Commander, is in charge of a
marine inspection zone, described in part 1 of this chapter, for the
performance of duties with respect to the inspection, enforcement, and
administration of vessel safety and navigation laws and regulations.
The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over
a vessel for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Sea, 1974, as amended.

Sec.  160.133-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. 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 the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 2nd St, SW., Stop 7126,
Washington, DC 20593-7126 and is available from the sources indicated
in this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr
Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08 Standard Specification for Carbon Structural
Steel, IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-7 (``ASTM A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08 Standard Specification for Steel Sheet,
Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by
the Hot-Dip Process, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.133-7, 160.133-13,
and 160.133-15. (``ASTM A 653'').
    (3) ASTM F 1166-07 Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design
for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, IBR approved for Sec.
160.133-7 (``ASTM F 1166'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications
Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44
(0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving
Appliances and Arrangements, IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-19 (``IMO
Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution MSC.81(70), IMO Revised recommendation on
testing of life-saving appliances, as amended by IMO Resolutions
MSC.226(82) and MSC.274(85), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.133-7 and
160.133-13 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing'').
    (3) IMO Resolution MSC.48(66), International Life-Saving Appliance
Code, as amended by IMO Resolutions MSC.207(81), MSC.218(82), and
MSC.272(85), IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-7 (``IMO LSA Code'').
    (4) MSC Circular 980, Standardized life-saving appliance evaluation
and test report forms, IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-13 (``IMO MSC
Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1 Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, IBR approved for Sec.
160.133-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

Sec.  160.133-7  Design, construction, and performance of release
mechanisms.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism, a
manufacturer must comply with, and each release mechanism must meet,
the requirements of the following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS> (incorporated by reference,
see Sec.  160.133-5), and a release mechanism for free-fall lifeboats
must also meet the applicable provisions of Chapter VI/6.1.4;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/6.9 (incorporated
by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5);
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each release mechanism must meet the following requirements--
    (1) Design. All functions of the release mechanism, including
removal of interlocks, operation of the release handle, resetting the
hooks, and reattaching the falls to the hooks, must be designed to be
operable by persons wearing immersion suits;
    (2) Each release mechanism should be designed following standard
human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5). Design limits should be based on a
range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile
male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as
described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an
immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of ASTM F
1166;
    (3) Steel. Each major structural component of each release
mechanism must be constructed of steel. Other materials may be used if
accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior. Sheet steel and
plate must be low-carbon, commercial quality, either corrosion
resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference,
see Sec.  160.133-5), coating designation G115. Structural steel plates
and shapes must be carbon steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5). All steel products, except corrosion
resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high-quality zinc
coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine
environment. Each fabricated part must be galvanized after fabrication.
Corrosion resistant steel must be a standard 302 stainless steel or
have equal or superior corrosion resistant characteristics.
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the
Commandant, American Bureau of Shipping, U.S. Navy, or an independent
laboratory accepted by the Commandant. Only electrodes intended for use
with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked
using appropriate non-destructive tests.
    (5) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic
corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
    (6) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware,
securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter
pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift;
    (7) The on-load operation of the release mechanism must require two
separate, deliberate actions by the operator;
    (8) The mechanical protection required by LSA Code Chapter IV/
<IP_ADDRESS>.2.2 must only be able to be engaged when the release mechanism
is properly and completely reset. Proper engagement of the mechanical
protection must be visually indicated;
    (9) The release and recovery procedures required by LSA Code
Chapter IV/<IP_ADDRESS>.5 must be included as an illustrated operation
instruction

plate or placard. The plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and
weatherproof and must be marked with the word ``DANGER''. The
illustrations must correspond exactly to those used in the instruction
and maintenance manual provided by the manufacturer;
    (10) The release lever or control must be red in color, and the
area immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting
light color;
    (11) The release lever and its connection to the release mechanism
must be of sufficient strength so that there is no deformation of the
release lever or the release control assembly during on-load release;
    (12) Positive means of lubrication must be provided for each
bearing which is not permanently lubricated. Points of lubrication must
be so located that they are clearly visible and accessible in the
installed position in the boat;
    (13) A hydraulic system, if used to activate the release mechanism,
must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and
fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except
that--
    (i) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and
FC332-X are not permitted;
    (ii) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm
(30 in); and
    (iii) If a hand pump is provided, adequate space must be provided
for the hand pump or hand operation;
    (14) Each release mechanism designed to launch a boat by free-fall
must not be able to carry any weight until the release mechanism is
properly reset, and each of the two independent activation systems
required to be operated from inside the boat must require at least two
independent actions from different locations inside the boat to release
the hook; and
    (15) Each release mechanism must have mechanical protection against
accidental or premature release that can only be engaged when the
release mechanism is properly and completely reset. Proper engagement
of the mechanical protection must be visually indicated.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

Sec.  160.133-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a
release mechanism, the manufacturer must submit an application to the
Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval
review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the
manufacturer must submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number,
title, revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts, including the
release hooks, release mechanisms, and connections;
    (4) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
    (5) Drawings of all signs and placards showing actual inscription,
format, color, and size;
    (6) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in
Sec. Sec.  160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this subpart;
    (7) A description of the quality control procedures and
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the release
mechanism, which must include but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints,
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of
fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with
the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (8) Full details of any other unique capability;
    (9) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the release
mechanism complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (10) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the release mechanism
will be constructed; and
    (11) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.133-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review
required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is
conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the
independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart
159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this
section in sufficient detail to show that the release mechanism meets
the construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed release mechanism;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or
construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly
indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the
Commandant under this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not
comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

Sec.  160.133-11  [Reserved]

Sec.  160.133-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype release
mechanisms.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted
in accordance with Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the
prototype release mechanism, and the approval inspections and tests
required under this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required
under this section will take place, and such notification must be in
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;

    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or
testing is performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and
materials for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.133-9 of this
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is
constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans
reviewed under Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart and the welders are
appropriately qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the
manufacturer is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the
production of release mechanisms, together with records identifying the
lot or serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials
were used.
    (d) Tests--(1) Prototype release mechanism readiness. All tests
must be conducted on a complete release mechanism.
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype release
mechanism of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO
Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, paragraph 6.9 (incorporated
by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5) applicable to davit-launched or
free-fall lifeboats. Tests must be conducted in accordance with these
paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the
following modifications--
    (i) Visual inspection. Each release mechanism must be visually
inspected to confirm--
    (A) Compliance with this subpart;
    (B) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (C) Ease of operation and maintenance;
    (ii) Operation. Operation of the off-load control, for a davit-
launched boat, must be tested to confirm that the release lever cannot
be shifted to release the boat in either the full load or light load
condition. For a free-fall boat, the operation of the hook release must
be demonstrated using both activation systems and may be tested without
launching the boat;
    (iii) Materials. Steel meeting ASTM A 653 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5) must meet the coating mass and bend
tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 after galvanizing or other
anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This compliance can be
ascertained through a supplier's certification or by conducting actual
tests;
    (iv) Tensile tests. The release mechanism hook assembly and
supporting structure must be tensile tested in a jig built to load the
hook assembly in the same way it would be loaded when installed in a
boat. The hook assembly will be approved for a maximum of one-sixth of
the highest load applied without failure;
    (v) Universal joints. This test is required if the release
mechanism employs universal joints to transmit the release power from
the control to the hook release. One of each type and size of universal
joint must be set up in a jig with the angles of leads set at 0 (zero),
30, and 60 degrees, respectively. A torque of 540 Nm (400 ft lb) must
be applied. This torque must be applied with the connecting rod secured
beyond the universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position.
There must be no permanent set, or undue stress, as a result of this
test; and
    (vi) Hydraulic controls. If the release mechanism includes a fluid
power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be
conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a
release mechanism identical in construction to smaller and larger
release mechanisms that have successfully completed the tests. However,
stress calculations in accordance with Sec.  160.133-9(b)(3) of this
subpart must still be submitted. Tests associated with release
mechanism components that have already been accepted by the Commandant
are not required to be repeated.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with
the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and
Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5). The report must include a signed
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as
permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the
testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing
and its results; and
    (2) The final plans of the release mechanism as built, in
triplicate. The plans must include the instructions for training and
maintenance described in Sec. Sec.  160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this
subpart, respectively.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant,
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

Sec.  160.133-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of release mechanisms.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent
laboratory must conduct or witness inspections, tests, and oversight
required by this section. Production inspections and tests of release
mechanisms must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production
tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to
monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all
production release mechanisms are produced to the same standard, and in
the same manner, as the prototype release mechanism approved by the
Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work
directly under the department or person responsible for either
production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section)
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the
following--

    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each release
mechanism constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this
section); and
    (iii) Serial number and model of the lifeboat or rescue boat in
which the release mechanism is installed, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the
construction of the release mechanism are in accordance with plans
approved under Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where
materials are stored for the release mechanism, work or testing is
performed on release mechanism or their component parts and materials,
or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of
this section, for the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer
is satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard
inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the
release mechanisms are being made in accordance with the approved plans
approved under Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements
of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records
of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date
of termination of approval of each release mechanism. The records must
include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.133-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and
certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved release
mechanism;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved
release mechanisms, together with records identifying the serial
numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production release mechanism, along
with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this
section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each release mechanism and the vessel
on which it was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent
laboratory must perform or witness the inspections and tests under
paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved release
mechanism to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer
also produces release mechanisms for approval by other maritime safety
administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection
visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each finished release
mechanism must be visually inspected. The manufacturer must develop and
maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all
applicable requirements have been met. Each approved release mechanism
constructed with non-corrosion resistant steel must be confirmed to
have met the coating mass and bend tests requirement specified under
ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5) after
galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This
compliance can be ascertained through a supplier's certification papers
or through conducting actual tests.

Sec.  160.133-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each hook body of a release mechanism must be marked with a
plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily
accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand
continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of
the release mechanism.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Manufacturer's name and model identification;
    (2) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype
or production tests;
    (3) Serial number of the release mechanism;
    (4) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (5) Month and year of manufacture;
    (6) Safe working load of the release mechanism; and
    (7) The word ``SOLAS.''

Sec.  160.133-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each release mechanism must have instructions and information
for the ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res.
A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5) to describe
the location and operation of the release mechanism.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft
and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
    (c) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the instructions
and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available--
    (1) In English to purchasers of release mechanisms approved by the
Coast Guard; and
    (2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple
procedures and illustrations for operation of the release mechanism.
The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in),
and must be made of durable material and suitable for display inside a
lifeboat and rescue boat and/or near launching appliances on vessels.

Sec.  160.133-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each release mechanism must have operation and maintenance
instructions that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual
inspections of the release mechanism.
    (b) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the manual
required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to
purchasers of a release mechanism approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by
paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for
survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.

Sec.  160.133-23  Procedure for approval of design, material, or
construction change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this
subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any
production release

mechanism. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the
procedures set forth in Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart, but
documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under
46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart need not be
resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a
prototype release mechanism with each change described in paragraph (a)
of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for
new approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.133-9 through 160.133-13 of this
subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, material, or
construction will be made by the Commandant only.
    28. Add subpart 160.135 to read as follows:
Subpart 160.135--Lifeboats (SOLAS)
Sec.
160.135-1 Scope.
160.135-3 Definitions.
160.135-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.135-7 Design, construction, and performance of lifeboats.
160.135-9 Preapproval review.
160.135-11 Fabrication of prototype lifeboats for approval.
160.135-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype lifeboats.
160.135-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of lifeboats.
160.135-17 Marking and labeling.
160.135-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.
160.135-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.135-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

Subpart 160.135--Lifeboats (SOLAS)

Sec.  160.135-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for
seeking Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat.

Sec.  160.135-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5), in this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-5214), U.S. COAST GUARD, 2100
2ND ST, SW., STOP 7126, WASHINGTON, DC 20593-7126.
    Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) is a composite structural
material formed by electrical-grade glass fibers in Coast Guard
accepted catalyst activated resin.
    Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat including all
required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for
which it is approved. This is also known as the ``condition B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.