NATIONAL BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT (BWM) PROGRAM
The unintentional introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS) into U.S. waters via the discharge of vessels ballast water has had significant negative effects on the nation’s marine and freshwater resources, biological diversity and coastal infrastructures. The Coast Guard is responding to these concerns through a comprehensive national BWM program. This program
(1) requires mandatory ballast water management on all vessels equipped with ballast tanks that operate on waters of the U.S.
(2) establishes additional practices for vessels entering U.S. waters after operating beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and
(3) requires the reporting and recordkeeping of ballasting operations whenever a vessel equipped with ballast water tanks enters a U.S. port or place to anchor or moor. Since November 1, 2004, the Coast Guard has enforced mandatory ballast water management practices for all vessels equipped with ballast tanks bound for ports or places within the U.S. and or entering U.S. waters, regardless of whether a vessel operated outside of the EEZ of the U.S. or equivalent zone of Canada. This includes those ships that declare No Ballast On Board (NBOB), and for transits that occur between all Captain of the Port zones, including zones in the Great Lakes. If the voyage is less than 24 hours, the operator must report before departing the port or place of departure. If the voyage exceeds 24 hours, the operator must report at least 24 hours before arrival at the port or place of destination.
Mandatory Practices (33 CFR §151.2035(a)) include avoiding ballast operations in or near marine sanctuaries, marine preserves, marine parks or coral reefs, avoiding or minimizing ballast water uptake: where known infestations, harmful organisms and pathogens are located, near sewage outfalls, near dredging operations, where tidal flushing is poor or when a tidal stream is known to be more turbid, in darkness when organisms may rise up in the water column, in shallow water or where propellers may stir up the sediment, areas with pods of whales, convergence zones and boundaries of major currents, cleaning ballast tanks to remove sediment regularly; only discharging minimal amounts of ballast water in coastal and internal waters; rinsing anchors and anchor chains during retrieval to remove organisms and sediments at their place of origin; removing fouling organisms from hull, piping and tanks on a regular basis and dispose of any removed substances in accordance with local, state and federal regulations; maintaining a vessel specific ballast water management plan, train vessel personnel in ballast water and sediment management and treatment procedures.
Additional mandatory practices for all vessels arriving in U.S waters with ballast water that was taken on within 200 NM of any coast after operating beyond the U.S. EEZ must do one of the following: Conduct mid-ocean ballast water exchange prior to entering U.S. waters, retain the ballast water on board while in U.S. waters or use a Coast Guard approved method to treat the ballast water. BWM practices shall not jeopardize the safety of a vessel, its crew, or its passengers. Therefore, the master of a vessel will not be prohibited from discharging unexchanged ballast, in areas other than the Great Lakes and the Hudson River, if the master decides that the practice would be a threat to safety, stability, or security because of adverse weather, vessel design, equipment failure, or any other extraordinary condition. All vessels, however, must discharge only the minimal amount of ballast water operationally necessary and ensure ballast water records accurately reflect any reasons for not complying with the mandatory requirements. The only vessels that are exempt from the mandatory BWM reporting and record keeping requirements of 33 CFR 151.2041 and 151.2045 are:
• Crude oil tankers engaged in coastwise trade Cautionary Situations 99 of 111 Chapter XI
• DOD/Coast Guard/Armed Service Vessels,
• Vessel that operate exclusively within a single COTP zone do not have to submit BWM reports and do not have to maintain BWM records on board for two years.
• Vessels that operate in more than one COTP zone, but conduct all ballast operations (uptake and discharge) exclusively in one COTP zone, regardless of the number of voyages the vessel makes, are also not required to report of maintain BWM records under 33 CFR 151.2041 and 151.2043. Vessels engaged in the foreign export of Alaskan North Slope Crude Oil: These vessels must ensure compliance with the reporting and record keeping provisions of 33 CFR 151.2041 and 151.2045 in addition to the requirements of 15 CFR 754.2(j)(3).
Penalties for failing to comply with the Mandatory BWM Requirements:
Max: $27,500 per day
Willful violations = Class C Felony
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Water Pollution Prevention
The Refuse Act of 1899 and the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (33 USC: 1901-1911) prohibit the throwing, discharge, or depositing of any refuse matter of any kind (including trash, garbage, oil, and other liquid pollutants) into the waters of the U.S. (from the shoreline to a distance of three miles). The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or hazardous substances in quantities that may be harmful into U.S. navigable waters, the contiguous zone, and waters within 200 miles.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
A person in charge of a vessel or an onshore or offshore facility is required to immediately report by telephone, radio telecommunication, or other similar means, any discharge of oil or other hazardous substance into the water. Reports should be made by calling toll-free to the National Pollution Response Center at (800) 424-8802. Penalty for discharging harmful oil is a maximum of $5,000 assessed against the person-in-charge of the source. Failure to notify the Coast Guard is a criminal penalty with a maximum $10,000 charge and/or one-year imprisonment. The owner/operator of the vessel or shore facility is liable for removal costs. Limits of liability are determined by vessel tonnage.
MARINE SANITATION DEVICE REGULATIONS
Certified marine sanitation devices (MSDs) are required on all vessels with installed toilet facilities. Direct discharge toilets are illegal unless the vessel is operating under a waiver granted by the Commandant (CG- 3PVC), U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20593-0001. This includes any equipment for installation onboard a vessel that is designed to receive, retain, treat, or discharge sewage and any process that treats such sewage. It does not include "portable toilets" which can be carried on and off the vessel. The discharge of untreated or inadequately treated sewage inside 3NM into U.S. waters is prohibited for all vessels, including foreign, federal, and state-owned vessels operating in U.S. waters. Noncompliance will result in civil penalties of up to $2,000. Manufacturers that sell MSDs or manufacturers of vessels with MSDs aboard that do not comply with these regulations are subject to fines of up to $5,000. More specific information concerning water pollution is contained in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 153, 155, and 159. All boaters must help to ensure that others obey the law and are encouraged to report polluting discharges to the nearest Coast Guard Office or call toll-free 1-800-424-8802. Please report the following information: 1) location 2) source 3) size 4) color 5) substance and 6) time observed. DO NOT attempt to take samples of any chemical discharge. If uncertain as to the identity of any discharge, avoid flame, physical contact, or inhalation of fumes. Law Enforcement 88 of 111 Chapter X
OIL POLLUTION REGULATIONS
A vessel, except a vessel of less than 26 feet in length, must have a placard of at least 5 by 8 inches, made of durable material, fixed in a conspicuous place in each machinery space, or at the bilge and ballast pump control station, stating the following: DISCHARGE OF OIL PROHIBITED THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT PROHIBITS THE DISCHARGE OF OIL OR OILY WASTE INTO OR UPON THE NAVIGABLE WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES OR THE WATERS OF THE CONTIGUOUS ZONE IF SUCH DISCHARGE CAUSES A FILM OR SHEEN UPON OR DISCOLORATION OF THE SURFACE OF THE WATER OR CAUSES A SLUDGE OR EMULSION BENEATH THE SURFACE OF THE WATER. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO A PENALTY OF $5,000.
a. FACILITIES (33 CFR §154): Any facility that transfers oil in bulk to or from a vessel with a capacity of 250 or more barrels of oil must comply with these regulations. Operators of these facilities must submit letters of intent and operations manuals. Equipment requirements and transfer procedures are set forth in 33 CFR §154.
b. VESSELS (33 CFR §155): This section deals with vessel design, operations, and equipment requirements. No person may drain oil sumps, filters, strainers, or purifiers into a vessel’s bilge. Personnel qualifications and oil transfers procedures are also specified. Another part of this section requires all U.S. vessels of 26 ft or greater to display a placard.
c. TRANSFER OPERATIONS (33 CFR §156): This part deals with oil transfer operations, setting forth requirements for oil transfer, inspection procedures, equipment tests, and supervisory responsibilities.
d. TANK VESSELS (33 CFR §157): These regulations govern the design and operation of seagoing U.S. tank ships and barges of 150 gross tons and over that carry oil in the U.S. domestic trade. These regulations should reduce pollution from tank cleaning and deballasting operations. Copies of these regulations may be obtained from the nearest Government Printing Office or marine supply store. For any questions concerning these regulations contact your nearest Coast Guard Captain of the Port.
GARBAGE DISCHARGE REGULATIONS
As of July 31, 1990, certain U.S. vessels are required to post garbage discharge placards for their crews and passengers. Certain other U.S. vessels are required to develop waste management plans and post garbage discharge placards for their crew and passengers. Placards are required for all manned U.S. vessels 26 feet or more in length. One or more placards must be placed in prominent locations and in sufficient numbers so they can be read by the crew and passengers. The placard locations must be readily accessible to the intended reader. Locations may include embarkation points, food service facilities, garbage handling spaces, and common spaces on deck. Coast Guard boarding officers must be satisfied that placards are located in such a manner, and in sufficient quantity, that every crew member and passenger aboard the vessel would have access to a placard. Boarding officers will have an ample supply of placards for public distribution during boardings. Individual mariners and small groups requesting placards may contact the Center for Marine Conservation, 312 Sutter Street, Suite 606, San Francisco, CA 94108, or call (415) 956-7441. A waste management plan and placard are required for all manned, ocean going U.S. vessels greater than 40 feet in length that are engaged in commerce, or equipped with a galley and berthing. The waste management plan must be developed in writing and meet the garbage discharge requirements of Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations subparts 151.51 through 151.77. Any person handling garbage on board the vessel must follow the provisions of the plan. The plan must describe procedures for collecting, processing, storing, and discharging garbage. The plan must designate the person who is in charge of carrying out the plan. The following is an example of a waste management plan for a vessel operating inside of three nautical miles from shore: "Solid waste management procedures. All garbage generated on the vessel is put in a garbage bag and disposed of in a trash container located at the port of call (or given to a tender vessel to take to shore for disposal). All crewmembers are to be oriented to the requirements of MARPOL Annex V by the captain. All new crewmembers will be specifically shown the garbage discharge placard and told to keep all refuse stowed on board. Passenger orientation to the vessel should include being shown the location of the trash receptacle, mention of refuse discharge regulations, and the name of the person charged with the Law Enforcement 89 of 111 Chapter X responsibility for carrying out the plan." Vessels operating beyond three nautical miles from shore must develop a plan that meets the requirements of MARPOL 73/78 Annex V, Garbage Discharge Restrictions. DISPOSAL OF PLASTICS AND OTHER GARBAGE IN U.S. WATERS New Federal regulations controlling disposal of garbage from vessels prohibit the discharge of plastic garbage anywhere in the marine environment. Plastic includes, but is not limited to: Plastic bags, Styrofoam, cups and lids, six pack holders, bottles, caps, buckets, shoes, milk jugs, egg cartons, stirrers, straws, synthetic fishing nets, ropes, lines, and "bio- or photo-degradable" plastics. These regulations also restrict the disposal of other types of garbage within specified distances from shore.
DEFINITIONS OF ADDITIONAL TYPES OF WASTE
a. GARBAGE - all kinds of food, cargo, and maintenance waste, ashes or clinkers, and domestic waste (generated in living spaces aboard the vessel -- what we normally call trash). "Garbage" does not include fresh fish or fish parts, dishwater, and gray-water.
b. DISHWATER - the liquid residue from the manual or automatic washing of dishes and cooking utensils which have been pre-cleaned to the extent that any food particles adhering to them would not normally interfere with the operation of automatic dishwashers.
c. DUNNAGE - cargo associated waste.
d. GRAYWATER - drainage from a dishwasher, shower, laundry, bath, or washbowl and does not include drainage from toilets, urinals, hospitals, and cargo spaces. All U.S. vessels, wherever they operate, and foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters out to and including the Exclusive Economic Zone (200 miles) must comply with Annex V of MARPOL 73/78.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
A person in charge of a vessel or an onshore or offshore facility is required to immediately report by telephone, radio telecommunication, or other similar means, any discharge of oil or other hazardous substance into the water. Reports should be made by calling toll-free to the National Pollution Response Center at (800) 424-8802. Penalty for discharging harmful oil is a maximum of $5,000 assessed against the person-in-charge of the source. Failure to notify the Coast Guard is a criminal penalty with a maximum $10,000 charge and/or one-year imprisonment. The owner/operator of the vessel or shore facility is liable for removal costs. Limits of liability are determined by vessel tonnage.
MARINE SANITATION DEVICE REGULATIONS
Certified marine sanitation devices (MSDs) are required on all vessels with installed toilet facilities. Direct discharge toilets are illegal unless the vessel is operating under a waiver granted by the Commandant (CG- 3PVC), U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20593-0001. This includes any equipment for installation onboard a vessel that is designed to receive, retain, treat, or discharge sewage and any process that treats such sewage. It does not include "portable toilets" which can be carried on and off the vessel. The discharge of untreated or inadequately treated sewage inside 3NM into U.S. waters is prohibited for all vessels, including foreign, federal, and state-owned vessels operating in U.S. waters. Noncompliance will result in civil penalties of up to $2,000. Manufacturers that sell MSDs or manufacturers of vessels with MSDs aboard that do not comply with these regulations are subject to fines of up to $5,000. More specific information concerning water pollution is contained in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 153, 155, and 159. All boaters must help to ensure that others obey the law and are encouraged to report polluting discharges to the nearest Coast Guard Office or call toll-free 1-800-424-8802. Please report the following information: 1) location 2) source 3) size 4) color 5) substance and 6) time observed. DO NOT attempt to take samples of any chemical discharge. If uncertain as to the identity of any discharge, avoid flame, physical contact, or inhalation of fumes. Law Enforcement 88 of 111 Chapter X
OIL POLLUTION REGULATIONS
A vessel, except a vessel of less than 26 feet in length, must have a placard of at least 5 by 8 inches, made of durable material, fixed in a conspicuous place in each machinery space, or at the bilge and ballast pump control station, stating the following: DISCHARGE OF OIL PROHIBITED THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT PROHIBITS THE DISCHARGE OF OIL OR OILY WASTE INTO OR UPON THE NAVIGABLE WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES OR THE WATERS OF THE CONTIGUOUS ZONE IF SUCH DISCHARGE CAUSES A FILM OR SHEEN UPON OR DISCOLORATION OF THE SURFACE OF THE WATER OR CAUSES A SLUDGE OR EMULSION BENEATH THE SURFACE OF THE WATER. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO A PENALTY OF $5,000.
a. FACILITIES (33 CFR §154): Any facility that transfers oil in bulk to or from a vessel with a capacity of 250 or more barrels of oil must comply with these regulations. Operators of these facilities must submit letters of intent and operations manuals. Equipment requirements and transfer procedures are set forth in 33 CFR §154.
b. VESSELS (33 CFR §155): This section deals with vessel design, operations, and equipment requirements. No person may drain oil sumps, filters, strainers, or purifiers into a vessel’s bilge. Personnel qualifications and oil transfers procedures are also specified. Another part of this section requires all U.S. vessels of 26 ft or greater to display a placard.
c. TRANSFER OPERATIONS (33 CFR §156): This part deals with oil transfer operations, setting forth requirements for oil transfer, inspection procedures, equipment tests, and supervisory responsibilities.
d. TANK VESSELS (33 CFR §157): These regulations govern the design and operation of seagoing U.S. tank ships and barges of 150 gross tons and over that carry oil in the U.S. domestic trade. These regulations should reduce pollution from tank cleaning and deballasting operations. Copies of these regulations may be obtained from the nearest Government Printing Office or marine supply store. For any questions concerning these regulations contact your nearest Coast Guard Captain of the Port.
GARBAGE DISCHARGE REGULATIONS
As of July 31, 1990, certain U.S. vessels are required to post garbage discharge placards for their crews and passengers. Certain other U.S. vessels are required to develop waste management plans and post garbage discharge placards for their crew and passengers. Placards are required for all manned U.S. vessels 26 feet or more in length. One or more placards must be placed in prominent locations and in sufficient numbers so they can be read by the crew and passengers. The placard locations must be readily accessible to the intended reader. Locations may include embarkation points, food service facilities, garbage handling spaces, and common spaces on deck. Coast Guard boarding officers must be satisfied that placards are located in such a manner, and in sufficient quantity, that every crew member and passenger aboard the vessel would have access to a placard. Boarding officers will have an ample supply of placards for public distribution during boardings. Individual mariners and small groups requesting placards may contact the Center for Marine Conservation, 312 Sutter Street, Suite 606, San Francisco, CA 94108, or call (415) 956-7441. A waste management plan and placard are required for all manned, ocean going U.S. vessels greater than 40 feet in length that are engaged in commerce, or equipped with a galley and berthing. The waste management plan must be developed in writing and meet the garbage discharge requirements of Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations subparts 151.51 through 151.77. Any person handling garbage on board the vessel must follow the provisions of the plan. The plan must describe procedures for collecting, processing, storing, and discharging garbage. The plan must designate the person who is in charge of carrying out the plan. The following is an example of a waste management plan for a vessel operating inside of three nautical miles from shore: "Solid waste management procedures. All garbage generated on the vessel is put in a garbage bag and disposed of in a trash container located at the port of call (or given to a tender vessel to take to shore for disposal). All crewmembers are to be oriented to the requirements of MARPOL Annex V by the captain. All new crewmembers will be specifically shown the garbage discharge placard and told to keep all refuse stowed on board. Passenger orientation to the vessel should include being shown the location of the trash receptacle, mention of refuse discharge regulations, and the name of the person charged with the Law Enforcement 89 of 111 Chapter X responsibility for carrying out the plan." Vessels operating beyond three nautical miles from shore must develop a plan that meets the requirements of MARPOL 73/78 Annex V, Garbage Discharge Restrictions. DISPOSAL OF PLASTICS AND OTHER GARBAGE IN U.S. WATERS New Federal regulations controlling disposal of garbage from vessels prohibit the discharge of plastic garbage anywhere in the marine environment. Plastic includes, but is not limited to: Plastic bags, Styrofoam, cups and lids, six pack holders, bottles, caps, buckets, shoes, milk jugs, egg cartons, stirrers, straws, synthetic fishing nets, ropes, lines, and "bio- or photo-degradable" plastics. These regulations also restrict the disposal of other types of garbage within specified distances from shore.
DEFINITIONS OF ADDITIONAL TYPES OF WASTE
a. GARBAGE - all kinds of food, cargo, and maintenance waste, ashes or clinkers, and domestic waste (generated in living spaces aboard the vessel -- what we normally call trash). "Garbage" does not include fresh fish or fish parts, dishwater, and gray-water.
b. DISHWATER - the liquid residue from the manual or automatic washing of dishes and cooking utensils which have been pre-cleaned to the extent that any food particles adhering to them would not normally interfere with the operation of automatic dishwashers.
c. DUNNAGE - cargo associated waste.
d. GRAYWATER - drainage from a dishwasher, shower, laundry, bath, or washbowl and does not include drainage from toilets, urinals, hospitals, and cargo spaces. All U.S. vessels, wherever they operate, and foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters out to and including the Exclusive Economic Zone (200 miles) must comply with Annex V of MARPOL 73/78.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Small Boat Vessel Safety Checklist (VCS)
VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS (VSC)
To determine if your recreational motorboat or sailboat meets Federal and State requirements, as well as recommended safety standards, contact the Coast Guard Auxiliary for a free Vessel Safety Check. Small commercial fishing vessels and vessels carrying six or fewer passengers for hire are also eligible for VSCs. A decal is awarded to boats that pass the examination. If your boat does not have the proper equipment, NO REPORT IS MADE TO ANY LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY. The Auxiliary examiner will advise you of the deficiencies so that you can correct them.
A vessel must meet the following Coast Guard Auxiliary standards for award of the VSC decal:
1. Numbering: The boat's registration number must be permanently attached to each side of the forward half of the boat. They must be plane, vertical, block characters, not less than three (3) inches high, and in a color contrasting with the background. A space or hyphen must separate the letters from the numbers. Place State tax stickers according to your state policy.
2. Registration / Document: Papers must be on board and agree with the Hull Identification (HIN) or Documentation Number. On documented pleasure vessels the hailing port, including city and state abbreviation, of not less than 4 inches in height must be on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull.
3. Personal Flotation Devices: PFDs shall be Coast Guard Approved, in good and serviceable condition, and of suitable size for the wearer. Boats less than 16 feet in length must be equipped with one wearable PFD for each person on board. Boats 16 feet and over must be equipped with one wearable PFD for each person plus one throwable.
4. Visual Distress Signals (VDS): All recreational boats used on coastal waters, Great Lakes, or the high seas, are required to carry Coast Guard Approved VDS. Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring vessels operating on inland waters to have a carry a suitable day and night VDS.
5. Fire Extinguishers: Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring that all vessels carry a minimum of one B-1 fire extinguisher.
6. Ventilation: Requirements are the same as the Federal Regulations.
7. Backfire Flame Arrestor: Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring all gasoline inboard and I/O motorboats, regardless of date of construction or engine installation, be equipped with a Coast Guard approved means of backfire flame control.
8. Sound Producing Devices: For compliance with "Navigation Rules" and for distress signaling purposes, all boats must carry some type of sound producing device capable of a 4 second blast audible for a half mile.
9. Navigation Lights: Vessels less than 16 feet in length are not required to have navigation lights. However, if the boat is equipped with them, they must be properly located and displayed.
10. Pollution Placards (Oily Waste Discharge): Vessels over 26 feet must display a placard, at least 5 by 8 inches, in a conspicuous place in the machinery spaces, or at the bilge pump control station.
11. MARPOL Trash Placard (Garbage Dumping Restrictions): United States vessels of 26 feet or longer must display in a prominent location, a durable placard at least 4 by 9 inches notifying the crew and passengers of the discharge restrictions.
12. Marine Sanitation Devises (MSDs): Recreational boats with installed toilet facilities must have an operable MSD. Vessels 65 feet and under must have either a type I, II, or III MSD and vessels over 65 feet must have either a type II or III MSD.
13. Navigation Rules: A current copy of the Navigation Rules (COMDTINST M16672.2D) must be carried onboard any vessel 39.4 feet and over.
14. State Requirements: State equipment requirements that pertain to basic safety and exceed standard VSC requirements will be also be checked by the Auxiliary vessel examiner and must be met before a VSC decal can be awarded.
15. General Condition: Also known as "seaworthiness". The boat must be free from fire hazards, in good overall condition with the bilges reasonably clean and the visible hull and structure generally sound. The maximum passenger capacity and horsepower must not be exceeded.
Other Checks:
a. Galley Equipment: Appliances and their fuel tanks must be properly secured, and the system must not leak. There must be no flammable material in the vicinity of stoves or heaters. Adequate ventilation must be provided for appliances and their fuel supply. Appliance fuel shut off valves must be readily accessible. Only common appliance fuel may be used on vessels. Gasoline, naphtha, and benzene are not allowed due to their highly volatile nature.
b. Electrical: Wiring must be in good condition and properly installed. No exposed areas or deteriorated insulation is permitted. The electrical system must be protected by fuses or manual resetting circuit breakers. Switches and fuse panels must be protected from rain or spray. Batteries must be secured to prevent movement and the terminals covered to prevent accidental arcing. In addition to the above requirements, the Auxiliary also recommends the following to receive a VSC Decal:
1. Fuel Systems: Portable fuel tanks (7 gallon capacity or less) must be constructed of sturdy non-breakable material and in good condition. Tanks shall be free of excessive corrosion and must not leak. Vents must be capable of being closed and the tank must have a vapor-tight, leak-proof cap. All tanks must be properly secured in the boat to prevent excessive movement. Permanent fuel tanks (over 7 gallon capacity) and fuel lines must be free of excessive corrosion and not leak. Fuel tanks must be secured and grounded. The fuel fill pipe must be tightly fitted to the fill plate and located outside the hull, where any spilled fuel will be directed overboard. A vent terminating outboard of the hull and compartments must lead to each permanent fuel tank.
2. Anchor and Anchor Line: The boat should be equipped with an adequate anchor and a line of suitable size and length for locality.
3. Alternate Propulsion: All boats less than 16 feet in length should carry a second method of propulsion such as a paddle, oar, etc.). If an alternate means of mechanical propulsion is carried, it must use separate fuel and starting source from the main propulsion motor.
4. De-watering Device: All boats should carry at least one effective manual de-watering device. This requirement is in addition to any installed electrical bilge pump that the vessel may have on board. To request a Vessel Safety Check, contact your local Coast Guard Auxiliary.
To determine if your recreational motorboat or sailboat meets Federal and State requirements, as well as recommended safety standards, contact the Coast Guard Auxiliary for a free Vessel Safety Check. Small commercial fishing vessels and vessels carrying six or fewer passengers for hire are also eligible for VSCs. A decal is awarded to boats that pass the examination. If your boat does not have the proper equipment, NO REPORT IS MADE TO ANY LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY. The Auxiliary examiner will advise you of the deficiencies so that you can correct them.
A vessel must meet the following Coast Guard Auxiliary standards for award of the VSC decal:
1. Numbering: The boat's registration number must be permanently attached to each side of the forward half of the boat. They must be plane, vertical, block characters, not less than three (3) inches high, and in a color contrasting with the background. A space or hyphen must separate the letters from the numbers. Place State tax stickers according to your state policy.
2. Registration / Document: Papers must be on board and agree with the Hull Identification (HIN) or Documentation Number. On documented pleasure vessels the hailing port, including city and state abbreviation, of not less than 4 inches in height must be on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull.
3. Personal Flotation Devices: PFDs shall be Coast Guard Approved, in good and serviceable condition, and of suitable size for the wearer. Boats less than 16 feet in length must be equipped with one wearable PFD for each person on board. Boats 16 feet and over must be equipped with one wearable PFD for each person plus one throwable.
4. Visual Distress Signals (VDS): All recreational boats used on coastal waters, Great Lakes, or the high seas, are required to carry Coast Guard Approved VDS. Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring vessels operating on inland waters to have a carry a suitable day and night VDS.
5. Fire Extinguishers: Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring that all vessels carry a minimum of one B-1 fire extinguisher.
6. Ventilation: Requirements are the same as the Federal Regulations.
7. Backfire Flame Arrestor: Vessel Safety Checks exceed the Federal Regulations by requiring all gasoline inboard and I/O motorboats, regardless of date of construction or engine installation, be equipped with a Coast Guard approved means of backfire flame control.
8. Sound Producing Devices: For compliance with "Navigation Rules" and for distress signaling purposes, all boats must carry some type of sound producing device capable of a 4 second blast audible for a half mile.
9. Navigation Lights: Vessels less than 16 feet in length are not required to have navigation lights. However, if the boat is equipped with them, they must be properly located and displayed.
10. Pollution Placards (Oily Waste Discharge): Vessels over 26 feet must display a placard, at least 5 by 8 inches, in a conspicuous place in the machinery spaces, or at the bilge pump control station.
11. MARPOL Trash Placard (Garbage Dumping Restrictions): United States vessels of 26 feet or longer must display in a prominent location, a durable placard at least 4 by 9 inches notifying the crew and passengers of the discharge restrictions.
12. Marine Sanitation Devises (MSDs): Recreational boats with installed toilet facilities must have an operable MSD. Vessels 65 feet and under must have either a type I, II, or III MSD and vessels over 65 feet must have either a type II or III MSD.
13. Navigation Rules: A current copy of the Navigation Rules (COMDTINST M16672.2D) must be carried onboard any vessel 39.4 feet and over.
14. State Requirements: State equipment requirements that pertain to basic safety and exceed standard VSC requirements will be also be checked by the Auxiliary vessel examiner and must be met before a VSC decal can be awarded.
15. General Condition: Also known as "seaworthiness". The boat must be free from fire hazards, in good overall condition with the bilges reasonably clean and the visible hull and structure generally sound. The maximum passenger capacity and horsepower must not be exceeded.
Other Checks:
a. Galley Equipment: Appliances and their fuel tanks must be properly secured, and the system must not leak. There must be no flammable material in the vicinity of stoves or heaters. Adequate ventilation must be provided for appliances and their fuel supply. Appliance fuel shut off valves must be readily accessible. Only common appliance fuel may be used on vessels. Gasoline, naphtha, and benzene are not allowed due to their highly volatile nature.
b. Electrical: Wiring must be in good condition and properly installed. No exposed areas or deteriorated insulation is permitted. The electrical system must be protected by fuses or manual resetting circuit breakers. Switches and fuse panels must be protected from rain or spray. Batteries must be secured to prevent movement and the terminals covered to prevent accidental arcing. In addition to the above requirements, the Auxiliary also recommends the following to receive a VSC Decal:
1. Fuel Systems: Portable fuel tanks (7 gallon capacity or less) must be constructed of sturdy non-breakable material and in good condition. Tanks shall be free of excessive corrosion and must not leak. Vents must be capable of being closed and the tank must have a vapor-tight, leak-proof cap. All tanks must be properly secured in the boat to prevent excessive movement. Permanent fuel tanks (over 7 gallon capacity) and fuel lines must be free of excessive corrosion and not leak. Fuel tanks must be secured and grounded. The fuel fill pipe must be tightly fitted to the fill plate and located outside the hull, where any spilled fuel will be directed overboard. A vent terminating outboard of the hull and compartments must lead to each permanent fuel tank.
2. Anchor and Anchor Line: The boat should be equipped with an adequate anchor and a line of suitable size and length for locality.
3. Alternate Propulsion: All boats less than 16 feet in length should carry a second method of propulsion such as a paddle, oar, etc.). If an alternate means of mechanical propulsion is carried, it must use separate fuel and starting source from the main propulsion motor.
4. De-watering Device: All boats should carry at least one effective manual de-watering device. This requirement is in addition to any installed electrical bilge pump that the vessel may have on board. To request a Vessel Safety Check, contact your local Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Weather for the Small Boat
You should never leave the dock without first checking the local weather forecast. You can get the weather information from the TV, radio, local newspaper, on-line, or from one of the weather channels on your VHF radio. At certain times of the year weather can change rapidly and you should continually keep a "weather eye" out. While you are out in a boat here are a few signs you can look for that indicate an approaching weather change:
1. Weather changes generally come from the west. Scan the sky with your weather eye, especially to the west.
2. Watch for clouds to build up, especially rapid vertically rising clouds.
3. Sudden drop in temperature.
4. Sudden change in wind direction and or speed.
5. If you have a barometer on your boat, check it every 2 to 3 hours. A rising barometer indicates fair weather and rise in wind velocity, a falling barometer indicates stormy or rainy weather.
What To Do in Severe Weather
1. Reduce speed, but keep just enough power to maintain headway.
2. Put on your PFDs.
3. Turn on running lights.
4. Head for nearest shore that is safe to approach, if possible.
5. Head bow of boat into the waves at about a 45 degree angle.
6. Keep bilges free of water.
7. Seat passengers on bottom of boat near centerline.
8. If your engine fails, trail a sea anchor on a line from the bow to keep the boat headed into the waves. A bucket will work as a sea anchor in an emergency.
9. Anchor the boat if necessary.
1. Weather changes generally come from the west. Scan the sky with your weather eye, especially to the west.
2. Watch for clouds to build up, especially rapid vertically rising clouds.
3. Sudden drop in temperature.
4. Sudden change in wind direction and or speed.
5. If you have a barometer on your boat, check it every 2 to 3 hours. A rising barometer indicates fair weather and rise in wind velocity, a falling barometer indicates stormy or rainy weather.
What To Do in Severe Weather
1. Reduce speed, but keep just enough power to maintain headway.
2. Put on your PFDs.
3. Turn on running lights.
4. Head for nearest shore that is safe to approach, if possible.
5. Head bow of boat into the waves at about a 45 degree angle.
6. Keep bilges free of water.
7. Seat passengers on bottom of boat near centerline.
8. If your engine fails, trail a sea anchor on a line from the bow to keep the boat headed into the waves. A bucket will work as a sea anchor in an emergency.
9. Anchor the boat if necessary.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Fueling Small Boats
Fueling
Most fires and explosions happen during or after fueling. To prevent an accident, follow these rules:
1. Portable tanks should be refueled ashore.
2. Close all hatches and other openings before fueling.
3. Extinguish all smoking materials.
4. Turn off engines, all electrical equipment, radios, stoves and other appliances.
5. Remove all passengers.
6. Keep the fill nozzle in contact with the tank and wipe up any spilled fuel.
7. Open all ports, hatches and doors to ventilate.
8. Run the blower for at least four minutes.
9. Check the bilges for fuel vapors before starting the engine.
10. Do the "sniff test". Sniff around to make sure there is no odor of gasoline anywhere in the boat. Do not start the engine until all traces of fuel vapors are eliminated.
Fuel Management
Practice the "One-Third Rule" by using:
1. One-third of the fuel going out
2. One-third to get back and
3. One-third in reserve
Most fires and explosions happen during or after fueling. To prevent an accident, follow these rules:
1. Portable tanks should be refueled ashore.
2. Close all hatches and other openings before fueling.
3. Extinguish all smoking materials.
4. Turn off engines, all electrical equipment, radios, stoves and other appliances.
5. Remove all passengers.
6. Keep the fill nozzle in contact with the tank and wipe up any spilled fuel.
7. Open all ports, hatches and doors to ventilate.
8. Run the blower for at least four minutes.
9. Check the bilges for fuel vapors before starting the engine.
10. Do the "sniff test". Sniff around to make sure there is no odor of gasoline anywhere in the boat. Do not start the engine until all traces of fuel vapors are eliminated.
Fuel Management
Practice the "One-Third Rule" by using:
1. One-third of the fuel going out
2. One-third to get back and
3. One-third in reserve
Friday, February 13, 2009
Anchoring your Small Boat
Anchoring is done for two principal reasons: first, to stop for fishing, swimming, lunch, or an overnight stay and secondly, to keep you from running aground in bad weather or as a result of engine failure. Anchoring can be a simple task if you follow some guide lines:
1. Make sure you have the proper type of anchor (danforth,plow,mushroom).
2. A three to six foot length of galvanized chain should be attached to the anchor. The chain will stand up to the abrasion of sand, rock or mud on the bottom much better than a fiber line.
3. A suitable length of nylon anchor line should be attached to the end of the chain (this combination is called the "Rode". The nylon will stretch under heavy strain cushioning the impact of the waves or wind on the boat and the anchor.
4. Select an area that offers maximum shelter from wind, current and boat traffic.
5. Determine depth of water and type of bottom (preferably sand or mud).
6. Calculate the amount of anchor line you will need. General rule: 5 to 7 times as much anchor line as the depth of water plus the distance from the water to where the anchor will attach to the bow. For example, if the water depth is 8 feet and it is 2 feet from the top of water to your bow cleat, you would multiply 10 feet by 5 to 7 to get the amount of anchor line to put out
7. Secure the anchor line to the bow cleat at the point you want it to stop.
8. Bring the bow of the vessel into the wind or current.
9. When you get to the spot you want to anchor, place the engine in neutral.
10. When the boat comes to a stop, slowly lower the anchor. Do not throw the anchor over as it tends to entangle the anchor line.
11. When all anchor line has been let out, back down on the anchor with engine in idle reverse to help set the anchor.
12. When anchor is firmly set, use reference points (landmarks) in relation to the boat to make sure you are not drifting. Check these points frequently. Do not anchor by the Stern. Anchoring a small boat by the stern has caused many to quickly capsize and sink. The transom is usually squared off and has less freeboard than the bow. In a current, the force of the water can pull the stern under. The boat is also vulnerable to swamping by wave action. The weight of a motor, fuel tank, or other gear in the stern increases the risk.
1. Make sure you have the proper type of anchor (danforth,plow,mushroom).
2. A three to six foot length of galvanized chain should be attached to the anchor. The chain will stand up to the abrasion of sand, rock or mud on the bottom much better than a fiber line.
3. A suitable length of nylon anchor line should be attached to the end of the chain (this combination is called the "Rode". The nylon will stretch under heavy strain cushioning the impact of the waves or wind on the boat and the anchor.
4. Select an area that offers maximum shelter from wind, current and boat traffic.
5. Determine depth of water and type of bottom (preferably sand or mud).
6. Calculate the amount of anchor line you will need. General rule: 5 to 7 times as much anchor line as the depth of water plus the distance from the water to where the anchor will attach to the bow. For example, if the water depth is 8 feet and it is 2 feet from the top of water to your bow cleat, you would multiply 10 feet by 5 to 7 to get the amount of anchor line to put out
7. Secure the anchor line to the bow cleat at the point you want it to stop.
8. Bring the bow of the vessel into the wind or current.
9. When you get to the spot you want to anchor, place the engine in neutral.
10. When the boat comes to a stop, slowly lower the anchor. Do not throw the anchor over as it tends to entangle the anchor line.
11. When all anchor line has been let out, back down on the anchor with engine in idle reverse to help set the anchor.
12. When anchor is firmly set, use reference points (landmarks) in relation to the boat to make sure you are not drifting. Check these points frequently. Do not anchor by the Stern. Anchoring a small boat by the stern has caused many to quickly capsize and sink. The transom is usually squared off and has less freeboard than the bow. In a current, the force of the water can pull the stern under. The boat is also vulnerable to swamping by wave action. The weight of a motor, fuel tank, or other gear in the stern increases the risk.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Aids to Navigation
CAUTION TO BE USED IN RELIANCE UPON AIDS TO NAVIGATION
The aids to navigation depicted on charts comprise a system of fixed and floating aids that have varying degrees of reliability. Do not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid. The buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and sinker, which secures the buoy to the seabed. The approximate position is used because of practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys and their sinkers in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, inherent imprecision in position fixing methods, prevailing atmospheric and sea conditions, the slope and the material making up the seabed, the fact that the buoys are moored to sinkers by varying lengths of chain, and the fact that buoy body and or sinker positions are not under continuous surveillance but are normally checked only during periodic maintenance visits which occur more than a year apart. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charting symbol. The mariner is also cautioned that buoys are liable to be carried away, shifted, capsized, sunk, etc. Lighted buoys may be extinguished or sound signals may not function as the result of ice, running ice or other natural causes, collisions, or other accidents. For the foregoing reasons, a prudent mariner must not rely solely upon the position or operation of floating aids to navigation, but must also utilize bearings from fixed objects and aids to navigation on shore. A vessel attempting to pass close aboard always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction the buoy may be marking.
SEASONAL AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Due to severe weather conditions and reduced vessel traffic during the winter, numerous aids to navigation lights, buoys, fog signals) are seasonally discontinued, withdrawn, or replaced by smaller aids. These changes occur at regular intervals each year. The approximate dates are specified in the Light List, the date seasonal aids are deployed may also be printed on nautical charts produced by the National Ocean Service. The actual dates the aids are deployed may be changed due to adverse weather or other conditions. Mariners should consult the Coast Guard's Local Notices to Mariners and listen to Broadcast Notices to Mariners for the latest information.
OFFSHORE AIDS TO NAVIGATION - CAUTION
Courses should invariably be set to pass offshore aids to navigation with sufficient clearance to avoid the possibility of collision or grounding. Errors of observation, current and wind effects, other vessels in the vicinity, and defects in steering gear may be, and have been, the cause of actual collisions, or damage to these important aids to navigation. Experience shows that buoys cannot be safely used as leading marks to be passed close aboard, and should always be left well off the course whenever sea room permits. It should be borne in mind that most large buoys are anchored by a very long scope of chain and, as a result, the radius of their watch circle is considerable. The charted position is the approximate location. Under certain conditions of wind and current, they are subject to sudden and unexpected sheers, which are certain to be a hazard to a vessel attempting to pass close aboard.
VANDALISM OF AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Frequently Coast Guard operated aids to navigation are damaged, defaced, or destroyed by vandals. This type of activity not only creates a serious condition for the mariner, but also increases the cost to you the taxpayer. The primary targets for vandals are usually buoys and lights on structures located on the ends of jetties and breakwaters. Federal laws provide that those apprehended defacing or destroying a Federal aid to navigation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and are subject to a fine of up to $2,500, or not less than $500, imprisonment or both plus repair cost. Those providing information leading to a conviction may be paid one half of such a fine. Report sightings of any vandalism to the your nearest Coast Guard unit.
The aids to navigation depicted on charts comprise a system of fixed and floating aids that have varying degrees of reliability. Do not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid. The buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and sinker, which secures the buoy to the seabed. The approximate position is used because of practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys and their sinkers in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, inherent imprecision in position fixing methods, prevailing atmospheric and sea conditions, the slope and the material making up the seabed, the fact that the buoys are moored to sinkers by varying lengths of chain, and the fact that buoy body and or sinker positions are not under continuous surveillance but are normally checked only during periodic maintenance visits which occur more than a year apart. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charting symbol. The mariner is also cautioned that buoys are liable to be carried away, shifted, capsized, sunk, etc. Lighted buoys may be extinguished or sound signals may not function as the result of ice, running ice or other natural causes, collisions, or other accidents. For the foregoing reasons, a prudent mariner must not rely solely upon the position or operation of floating aids to navigation, but must also utilize bearings from fixed objects and aids to navigation on shore. A vessel attempting to pass close aboard always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction the buoy may be marking.
SEASONAL AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Due to severe weather conditions and reduced vessel traffic during the winter, numerous aids to navigation lights, buoys, fog signals) are seasonally discontinued, withdrawn, or replaced by smaller aids. These changes occur at regular intervals each year. The approximate dates are specified in the Light List, the date seasonal aids are deployed may also be printed on nautical charts produced by the National Ocean Service. The actual dates the aids are deployed may be changed due to adverse weather or other conditions. Mariners should consult the Coast Guard's Local Notices to Mariners and listen to Broadcast Notices to Mariners for the latest information.
OFFSHORE AIDS TO NAVIGATION - CAUTION
Courses should invariably be set to pass offshore aids to navigation with sufficient clearance to avoid the possibility of collision or grounding. Errors of observation, current and wind effects, other vessels in the vicinity, and defects in steering gear may be, and have been, the cause of actual collisions, or damage to these important aids to navigation. Experience shows that buoys cannot be safely used as leading marks to be passed close aboard, and should always be left well off the course whenever sea room permits. It should be borne in mind that most large buoys are anchored by a very long scope of chain and, as a result, the radius of their watch circle is considerable. The charted position is the approximate location. Under certain conditions of wind and current, they are subject to sudden and unexpected sheers, which are certain to be a hazard to a vessel attempting to pass close aboard.
VANDALISM OF AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Frequently Coast Guard operated aids to navigation are damaged, defaced, or destroyed by vandals. This type of activity not only creates a serious condition for the mariner, but also increases the cost to you the taxpayer. The primary targets for vandals are usually buoys and lights on structures located on the ends of jetties and breakwaters. Federal laws provide that those apprehended defacing or destroying a Federal aid to navigation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and are subject to a fine of up to $2,500, or not less than $500, imprisonment or both plus repair cost. Those providing information leading to a conviction may be paid one half of such a fine. Report sightings of any vandalism to the your nearest Coast Guard unit.
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