Abs Rules For Vessels in International Trade

U.S.
SUPPLEMENT
TO
ABS RULES FOR STEEL VESSELS FOR

VESSELS CERTIFICATED
FOR INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES
1 April 2011
AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING
USCG Approval: 3 May 2011 (16711/ABS)

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the American Bureau of Shipping is to serve the public interest as
well as the needs of our clients by promoting the security of life, property and the
natural environment, primarily through the development and verification of
standards for the design, construction and operational performance of marine-
related facilities.
Q U A L I T Y & E N V I R O N M E N TA L P O L I C Y
It is the policy of the American Bureau of Shipping to be responsive to the

individual and collective needs of our clients as well as those of the public at large,
to provide quality services in support of our mission, and to provide our services
consistent with international standards developed to avoid, reduce or control
pollution to the environment.
All of our client commitments, supporting actions, and services delivered must
be recognized as expressions of Quality. We pledge to monitor our performance as
an on-going activity and to strive for continuous improvement.
We commit to operate consistent with applicable environmental legislation and

regulations and to provide a framework for establishing and reviewing
environmental objectives and targets.
CONTENTS
ABS MISSION STATEMENT
QUALITY & ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
INTRODUCTION
SECTIONS
I. SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS TO CURRENT ABS RULES
II. SOLAS INTERPRETATIONS NOT ADDRESSED BY ABS RULES
III. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS NOT CONTAINED IN ABS RULES,

MARPOL OR SOLAS
IV. SURVEYS AFTER CONSTRUCTION

CHECKLIST ON ACP CLASSIFICATION SURVEYS SLC
CHECKLIST ON ACP STATUTORY SURVEYS SLE
CHECKLIST ON ACP ENVIRONMENTAL SURVEYS AND
MARPOL
V. SURVEYS DURING CONSTRUCTION

CHECKLIST ON ACP NEW CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS NCS
VI. PASSENGER VESSELS – SOLAS INTERPRETATIONS

NOT ADDRESSED BY ABS RULES
VII. IBC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
VIII. IGC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
IX. REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS (OSV’s)

CERTIFICATED UNDER SUBCHAPTER L
X REQUIREMENTS FOR OCEANOGRAPHIC RESEARCH VESSELS

CERTIFICATED UNDER SUBCHAPTER U
XI. GUIDANCE AND REFERENCES
XII. RECORD OF REVISIONS

U. S. Supplement Introduction
INTRODUCTION
Those who use this Supplement are asked to review the current ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels, 2004 SOLAS and 2006 MARPOL or latest. Please be aware of
the “Scope and Conditions of Classification.” This Supplement does not change the scope
or conditions of ABS Classification. It is a reference document within the ABS Quality
System. The Check Sheets contained in this Supplement are also for reference only and are
not to be used in the performance of a Survey. The controlled Check Sheets are available
through the normal distribution of controlled documents. The most recent revisions may be
obtained from the ABS Surveyor-in-Charge.
Historically, as part of their regulatory reform initiative, the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
established a task group consisting of USCG personnel and ABS Engineers to conduct a
comparison of the applicable requirements contained within Title 46 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) Subchapters “D” and “I” to the similar applicable regulations contained in
1974 SOLAS (as amended), the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from
Ships (MARPOL 73/78) and the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. The
purpose of this effort was to identify redundancies and to determine if the International
Conventions and ABS Class Rules would provide an equivalent level of safety to those
regulations contained within 46 CFR Subchapters “D” and “I”. Over 370 separate regulations
were examined, and it was determined that many of the CFR requirements were satisfied by
either the ABS Rules alone, 1974 SOLAS (as amended) alone, MARPOL 73/78 alone, or a
combination of all three of these regulations.
The results of the task group’s study were codified into a document, subsequently modified to
include Subchapter “H”, titled “U.S. Supplement to ABS Rules for Steel Vessels for Vessels on
International Voyages, dated 1 August 1997.” After review, the ABS U.S. Supplement was
reissued in 1999 and again in 2003. This U.S. Supplement to ABS Rules for Steel Vessels for
Vessels Certificated for International Voyages” ( 2010 ABS U.S. Supplement) identifies those
USCG requirements which are to be applied in addition to the 2009 ABS Steel Vessels Rules and
requirements of the International Conventions in force as of 1 January 2009. This publication,
subsequently modified to include Subchapter “L” & “U”, is used in lieu of 46 CFR Subchapters
“D”, “H”, “I”,“L” and “U” for plan review and inspections delegated to ABS by the USCG and,
if used with a later edition of ABS Steel Vessels Rules, changes to this Supplement that result
from changes between that later edition and the current edition of ABS Rules must also be
applied. The use of this U.S. Supplement is restricted to those vessels which are enrolled in the
USCG’s Alternate Compliance Program (ACP) and classed by ABS. The procedures for
enrollment in the Alternate Compliance Program are addressed on Page 4 of this Introduction.
Applicability of this Supplement is limited to existing vessels that meet the following conditions
and new vessels that are intended to meet the following conditions:
A. A Cargo vessel over 500 gross tons (454 metric tons) ITC or a Passenger vessel
carrying 12 or more passengers or an OSV over 500 gross tons (454 metric tons);
B. Greater than 90 meters (295 feet) in scantling length
C. Certificated for international voyage
D. Issued ICLL, SOLAS and MARPOL Certificates
Introduction - 1
E. Issued and maintains a valid Certificate of Documentation (US Flag)

F. Certified under 46 CFR Subchapter D, H, I, L or U.
G. Classed under ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
The Supplement is divided into twelve sections:
Section I contains supplemental requirements in areas where there exist ABS Rule cites for
which the USCG has additional requirements. For ease of reference, each of these cites is
identified by the corresponding ABS Rule number. If a Rule cite does not apply to the vessel
under consideration, then the associated supplement requirement does not apply.
Section II contains the interpretations of 1974 SOLAS (as amended) from the U.S.
Administration for those areas in which the USCG has amplifying or additional requirements.
For ease of reference, each of these cites is identified by the corresponding SOLAS cite. If a
SOLAS cite is not applicable to the vessel under consideration, then the associated interpretation
does not apply.
Section III contains supplemental requirements in areas not contained in the ABS Rules,
MARPOL or SOLAS for which the USCG has requirements. For ease of reference, each of these
cites is identified by subject area title and an arbitrarily assigned paragraph identifier.
Section IV contains the check sheets to be used both during and after construction (not USCG
approved).
Section V contains the check sheet to be used during construction (not USCG approved).
Section VI contains the U.S. Administration’s interpretation of 1974 SOLAS (as amended) for
the technical review of passenger vessels. The check sheets for surveys are pending enrollment
of a vessel (not USCG approved).
Section VII contains the USCG interpretations for the implementation of the IBC Code.
Section VIII contains the USCG interpretations for the implementation of the IGC Code.
Section IX contains the supplemental requirement for OSV’s > 90 Meters in Length.
Section X contains additional requirements that apply to Subchapter U (Research Vessels).
Section XI contains guidance and references.
Section XII contains the record of revisions commencing after 1 August 1997.
There are specific cites within this document where U.S. domestic standards are specified as
mandatory for certain systems, equipment or components. U.S. Federal law is one of the reasons
why many items are mandatory. It is recognized that there exist alternative standards developed
by regulatory bodies and industry, both internal and external to the United States, which would
define systems, equipment or components that are equivalent to those being specified herein. To
the extent authorized by USCG Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular No. 2-95, Change-2
Introduction - 2
(NVIC 2-95, Change-2), as amended and supplemented, ABS may evaluate alternatives built to
these international/industry standards and forward comments and recommendations to the USCG
Marine Safety Center (MSC) for final approval. Under no circumstances is ABS authorized to
endorse or issue a Certificate of Inspection, exempt international convention requirements, or
approve equivalencies to SOLAS or other international conventions.
In the normal course of technological advancement and application, it is entirely possible that
new systems, equipment or components will be available for use onboard vessels covered by this
program. In the event that existing design requirements are not applicable, it is incumbent on the
owner, builder or his designer to seek from ABS as early as possible a determination by the MSC
of the requirements which will be applied in such cases.
This document is the result of several years of review by ABS and the USCG. As noted above,
the vision was to find common ground in their mutual missions of the protection of life and
property at sea.
In August 1994 the USCG delegated authority to ABS under a Pilot Program, as defined in
NVIC 2-95, to survey ABS-Classed vessels for compliance with the following statutory
instruments:
• The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (as amended); and
• The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships 73/78.
The Pilot Program was completed on 31 July 1997, and NVIC 2-95 was reissued on 1 August
1997 as NVIC 2-95, Change-1. Incorporated in Change 1 was the Coast Guard delegation of
authority for ABS to review plans and conduct surveys on behalf of the USCG for vessels
enrolled in the Alternate Compliance Program.
Under ACP, a voluntary program, the owner may elect to have ABS conduct surveys on existing
vessels on behalf of the USCG. For new construction, a request is required from both the
shipyard and the owner since enrollment in this program will influence both parties.
The controlling documents pertaining to vessels enrolled in ACP are 1974 SOLAS, as amended,
MARPOL 73/78, as amended, NVIC 2-95, Change-2 (dated 5 May 2006), Volume II, Section B
Chapter 9 of the USCG Marine Safety Manual, the ABS Steel Vessels Rules and this
Supplement.
A vessel enrolled in the Alternate Compliance Program must satisfy all the requirements
contained in the applicable sections of the International Conventions, ABS Rules and the U.S.
Supplement, prior to the issuance of the COI.
Introduction - 3
PROCEDURES FOR ENROLLMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN ACP
The process for enrollment in ACP is defined in the USCG Marine Safety Manual, Volume II,
Section B, Chapter 9 and NVIC 2-95, Change-2 which is the guiding document for ACP
administration and policy. The Marine Safety Manual, Volume II, and NVIC 2-95, Change-2
may be accessed, respectively, using the following links:
http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/16000-16999/CIM_16000_7A.pdf
http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg5/nvic/pdf/1995/NVIC%2002-95ch2.pdf
NEW CONSTRUCTION
For new construction, since the design, fabrication sequences, and construction cost may be
affected by the intended enrollment of a proposed new construction in ACP by the owner, it is
imperative that the shipyard and owner consult with ABS as early in the design phase as
possible. It is prudent to discuss the proposed enrollment in depth as soon as possible to establish
the basic fundamentals and administrative clarifications. Upon the completion of such a meeting,
both the shipyard and the owner are to forward a written request to ABS to confirm their
intentions. For the shipyard, this could be accomplished in concert with the forwarding of the
ABS Request for Classification Survey Details (Form A.B.122). For survey purposes, the owner
is to forward a separate letter to the local ABS Office or Regional Office (Divisional Assistant
Chief Surveyor, ABS Americas) to confirm their intention regarding the enrollment of the vessel.
While this will assist in the proper processing within ABS, it is very important to note that the
application for enrollment in ACP is to be forwarded to the USCG in accordance with NVIC 2-
95, Change-2.
EXISTING VESSELS
With existing vessels, the owner or operator applies for enrollment by submitting an Application
for Inspection of U.S. Vessel (Form CG-3752) to the OCMI, indicating their desire to have their
vessel participate in the program. The USCG will subsequently authorize the ABS Program
Manager (Divisional Assistant Chief Surveyor, ABS Americas) and the local ABS Survey Office
to commence the process. A “Hand Over Survey,” discussed later in this text, will be scheduled
at a mutually convenient time. Upon completion of this Survey, the owner/operator will receive
official notification from the USCG indicating the enrollment status.
RE-FLAGGING
For vessels intending to re-flag to U.S. Flag, it is envisioned that:
(1) For existing vessels intended to be certificated under the U.S. flag for the first time, the
Supplement will apply in a similar manner to other vessels but with additional
requirements or changes.
(2) NVIC 10-81 (Current Version) is the guiding document for re-flagging.
(3) The USCG accepted Vessel Deficiency Report or “Gap Analysis” augments the
definition of the standards applied to the specific vessel.
HOW TO WITHDRAW
In order to withdraw from ACP, the owner is to advise the USCG in writing. If this is agreeable
to the USCG, all data applicable to the vessel during the time period the vessel was enrolled in
the program will be forwarded to the USCG for incorporation into the USCG computer files.
Introduction - 4
Upon accomplishment of the information transfer, the owner would then continue the required
inspections directly under the jurisdiction of the USCG.
HAND OVER SURVEY

For all vessels, a “Hand Over Survey” must take place. The mandatory annual surveys for the
SOLAS Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate, Safety Equipment Certificate and the
MARPOL Certificates are conducted at this time, along with any surveys required for certificates
due for renewal or annual classification surveys. The USCG will confirm that the history of the
vessel has been properly entered into the ABS Status System. Then the Surveyors and Inspectors
will agree on the resolution of any 835s and outstanding requirements. At this time, the USCG
will also confirm to the Surveyors that the vessel is in compliance with all CFRs or will advise
on those areas that must be corrected. The Surveyor and the Inspector will then complete the
ABS Record of Safety Equipment. This record will ensure that the requirements of the USCG
continue. The Record of Safety Equipment is to be a permanent part of the vessel’s documents.
WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION?

An ACP vessel will still have a Certificate of Inspection on board. However, it will be
distinctively different in that it will not contain details of life-saving appliances and fire-
extinguishing equipment. The ABS Status will contain the major details of the vessel.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE VESSEL IS DAMAGED?

It is the responsibility of the vessel’s Master to report a marine casualty or accident, as defined in
46 CFR 4.03 to the cognizant USCG Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection (OCMI). ABS takes
the lead in assessing the material condition of the affected vessel, proposing repairs and
determining “Fitness to Proceed” and is obliged to share this with the local OCMI. If the vessel
poses a pollution threat to the environment or poses a hazard to the safety of a U.S. navigable
waterway such as a Class I structural failure, the local OCMI will have final authority to review
and approve repairs. This decision must be coordinated with the Surveyor in Charge.
REPORTABLE CASUALTY
A marine casualty or accident means a casualty or accident involving any vessel within the
navigable waters of the U.S., its territories or possessions, or any casualty or accident involving a
US Flag vessel anywhere in the world. This definition of marine casualty or accident does not
pertain to public vessels. The situations requiring reporting are contained in 46 CFR 4.05-1,
NOTICE OF MARINE CASUALTY, as follows:
Immediately after addressing all resultant safety concerns, the owner, agent, master, operator, or
person in charge, shall notify the nearest Marine Safety Office or USCG Group Office whenever
a vessel is involved in a marine casualty consisting of:
(1) An unintended grounding, or an unintended strike of (allision with) a bridge;
(2) An intended grounding, or an intended strike of a bridge, that creates a hazard to
navigation, the environment, or the safety of a vessel, or that meets any criterion of
paragraphs 3 through 7;
(3) A loss of main propulsion, primary steering, or any associated component or control
that reduces the maneuverability of the vessel;
(4) An occurrence materially and adversely affecting the vessel’s seaworthiness or fitness
for service or route, including but not limited to fire, flooding, or failure of or damage
Introduction - 5
to fixed fire-extinguishing systems, life-saving appliances, auxiliary power generating

equipment, or bilge pumping systems;
(5) A loss of life;
(6) An injury that requires professional medical treatment (treatment beyond first aid) and,
if the person is engaged or employed on board a vessel in commercial service, that
renders the individual unfit to perform his or her routine duties; or
(7) An occurrence causing property damage in excess of $25,000 including the cost of
labor and materials to restore the property to its condition before the occurrence, but not
including the cost of salvage, cleaning, gas-freeing, drydocking, or demurrage.
In addition to the above notification to the USCG, the owner, agent, master, operator or person in
charge shall notify the nearest ABS office of any damages, failures, deterioration or repairs to
hull, machinery or equipment, which affects or may affect classification or certification, and
request an ABS Surveyor to attend the vessel at the first opportunity.
HOW TO HANDLE THE FORM CG 835

The Coast Guard may issue deficiencies on form CG-835 in conjunction with its inspections
when there is no ABS surveyor onboard or available to attend in which case the Surveyor would
normally issue the deficiency. When the CG inspector issues the CG-835, the original will be
provided to the vessel’s Master or authorized representative and the Coast Guard inspector will
make a copy available to the local ABS office. The local ABS surveyor will enter the Coast
Guard deficiency into the ABS vessel’s survey status as an outstanding recommendation when it
affects class and statutory certificates, or as a deficiency when it affects only the statutory
certificates. The OCMI may accept a report of an ABS surveyor as proof of completion of an
outstanding CG-835. The ABS Surveyor will specifically report on clearing of any CG-835
recommendations/deficiencies in a narrative report and forward one copy of the report to the
local OCMI to allow USCG records to be updated. Without the written consent of the OCMI,
ABS Surveyors cannot extend or modify recommendations/deficiencies that were initially
reported on Form CG-835 by Coast Guard Inspectors.
NO SAIL ITEMS
This is a term normally used by the USCG when the condition of a vessel is suspect or has
deteriorated or has sustained excessive damages such that there is a direct and immediate threat
to the vessel’s crew, the safety of navigation or the marine environment. ABS has the same
concerns. However, the ABS terminology differs. ABS defines no sail items in various sections
of the ABS Process Instructions. ABS does not use the term “Seaworthy.” The term used in ABS
is “Fitness to Proceed.” A vessel is not considered Fit to Proceed if it has suffered structural
damage that affects the longitudinal strength of the vessel or its watertight integrity. It also
applies if the vessel has lost propulsion, steering or electrical generation capacity, including
redundant systems.
Any of the foregoing would generate a report of noncompliance with the Rules and be listed as
an “Outstanding Recommendation.” Conversely, if the problem lies with SOLAS or MARPOL
items, it would be listed as a “Deficiency.” Deficiencies that would prevent a vessel from sailing
would be: (1) Loss of life-saving appliances such as lifeboats; (2) Lack of life-saving appliances;
(3) Failure of critical parts of the fire-extinguishing system. Examples of “No Sail” items are
inoperable fire pumps or depleted fixed fire-extinguishing systems. On occasion an item that is a
deficiency will also be an outstanding recommendation against Class. The emergency fire pump
Introduction - 6
is such an item. The emergency fire pump is required both for Class and for the Safety
Equipment Certificate to be issued and/or remain valid.
OUTSTANDING RECOMMENDATIONS (OSR)

This is the term used by ABS to define areas of noncompliance with the Rules. Classification is
maintained by a series of Annual Surveys and Periodical Surveys that allow the Class Society an
opportunity to survey a vessel and maintain a record of its compliance with the Rules. It also
allows ABS to confirm that the owner is maintaining the vessel in a satisfactory condition. A
single Outstanding may not necessarily affect the Class of the vessel. Consideration is given to
allow time to make corrections or to reach a more appropriate port. A number of Outstanding
Recommendations or a major Outstanding Recommendation may be sufficient to question the
“fitness of the vessel to proceed.”
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SPECIAL SURVEYS MUST BE EXTENDED?

ACP survey extensions must be processed through the Survey Manager, ABS Americas. The
maximum survey extension will be three months and shall not alter the baseline date for the
survey concerned. Except for the Special Surveys, all other surveys have windows of time in
which they are to be completed. A series of letters are sent to the owner advising of due dates
and overdue dates. Provided there are no special circumstances to consider, the Class of the
vessel is in jeopardy and will be canceled 90 days after the due date.
DRYDOCKING EXTENSIONS
Regardless of the circumstances, the USCG retains the ultimate authority for granting
drydocking extensions of 90 days or more to ACP vessels. Under exceptional circumstances,
ABS allows extensions of drydockings. The vessel must have no record of a grounding since the
last drydocking, and a Survey must be conducted. For a 30-day extension, a general examination
of the vessel is conducted. For extensions of 31 days up to 90 days, a modified Under Water
Survey In Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) is required. In the modified survey a record of the
examination is made on photographs. The diver has a free swim of the bottom. Extensions of 90
days up to one year are normally done to allow the vessel’s surveys to be harmonized with IMO
requirements, but must be approved by the USCG. A one-year extension requires a full Under
Water Survey in Lieu of Drydocking, including two-way voice and video communications
between the Surveyor and the diver. It would be considered unusual to do a one-year extension
under any other circumstances.
UNDER WATER SURVEY IN LIEU OF DRYDOCKING

An ACP UWILD guide was developed for vessels enrolled in ACP. Guidance for Underwater
Surveys In Lieu of Drydocking for vessels enrolled in the Alternate Compliance Program is
included in NVIC 2-95, Change 2, Enclosure (3), which also refers to NVIC 01-89.
DRYDOCKING INSPECTION INTERVALS FOR PASSENGER VESSELS

For passenger vessels on international voyages, the CG has determined that the intervals for
drydock inspections will be as specified under 46 CFR 71.50-3(a) which dictates drydocks and
internal structural exams be conducted annually. Passenger vessels which have enrolled in the
Coast Guard Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking(UWILD) program may undergo
drydocks on a twice in five year schedule with annual UWILDs in the intervening years.
Introduction - 7
For required internal structural exams, all tanks must be inspected annually; however, to
accommodate vessel sailing schedules and surveyor availability, the class society may work with
the attending Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection to develop a schedule to inspect a percentage
of tanks at intervals throughout the year so that all tanks are inspected before the end of that
period. At no time shall the period of internal inspection exceed twelve month.
OVERSIGHT
The USCG, in delegating surveys to ABS, still retains responsibility that vessels meet regulatory
requirements. Crucial to fulfilling this responsibility is active and viable oversight by the USCG.
ABS’ World Wide ISO 9001:2000 Certified Quality System can aid in this oversight. As with
any successful quality system, it is a smoothly functioning in-service process verification
scheme. It provides a source of continuous and timely opinion related to the effectiveness of the
processes in place to meet customer requirements. An added benefit is the information it
provides to both clients and management to prove that controlled work is being accomplished. In
this respect it is very important in facilitating the delegation to ABS of USCG vessel inspection.
It provides a framework that can be used in the USCG oversight program for delegated
responsibilities.
Oversight will consist of internal and external audits of ABS by the USCG. It will also consist of
annual boardings of the vessels to verify continued compliance with the issued certificates. The
boardings will be similar to those done in Port State Inspections. A check sheet describing the
considerations to expand the boardings is a part of the USCG Marine Safety Manual, Volume II,
Section B Chapter 9. Coast Guard oversight activities also include periodic oversight
reexaminations, attendance at dockings, new construction visits, attendance at UWILD surveys,
evaluation of plan review activities and attendance at ISM Code safety management system
audits.
Supplemental Reporting
Certain supplemental information is required by the USCG to satisfy their requirements for the
renewal and maintenance of the Certificate of Inspection. This supplemental information is
indicated on Check Sheets ACP CS, ACP ES, ACP SS, and ACP NCS. These check sheets can
be found in Section IV and V of this supplement and are to be completed with the standard ABS
check sheet described on the Check Sheet.
With regards to U.S. flagged passenger vessels requiring Safety Passenger Certificates, ABS is
not authorized under ACP to issue the SOLAS Passenger Ship Safety Certificate. (SLP)
Although ABS will not issue the SLP certificate, ABS at the request of the owners and USCG
will carry out the applicable Safety Passenger Ship Survey and issue a report in the normal
manner to the vessel’s owners. A copy of the report should be left onboard. The USCG may take
into consideration this report in the course of their inspections for issuance of the SLP certificate.
Where the owners have asked ABS to conduct these surveys, the attending Surveyor is to
confirm to the Survey Department so that a comment may be added to the vessel status.
Introduction - 8
U. S. Supplement Section I
Cite: 1-1-5/1 Other Regulations – General I-1
Cite: 3-3-1/3.1 Intact Stability I-1
Cite: 3-3-1/3.3 Damage Stability I-1
Cite: 4-3-4/13 Steering Gear – Control Systems I-1
Cite: 4-3-4/15 Steering Gear – Instrumentation and Alarms I-1
Cite: 4-4-1/1 Boilers and Pressure Vessels and Heat Exchangers I-2
Cite: 4-6-2/5.11 Piping Systems – Metallic Piping – Valves I-2
Cite: 4-6-3 Piping Systems – Plastic Piping I-3
Cite: 4-7-3/1 Fire Safety Systems – Fire-Extinguishing Systems and

Equipment – Fire Mains I-3
Cite: 4-8-2/3.11 Electrical Systems – System Design – System Arrangement I-3
Cite: 4-8-2/5.9.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Sources of

Power – Power Supply – Generator I-4
Cite: 4-8-2/5.13 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Switchboard I-4
Cite: 4-8-2/5.19 Electrical Systems – System Design – Alarms and Safeguards –

Emergency Switchboard I-4
Cite: 4-8-2/7.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Cable Sizing I-4

& 7.7
Cite: 4-8-2/11.3 Electrical Systems – System Design – Navigation Light System I-4
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.1 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication System Design –

& 11.5.5 General Power Supply I-5
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.2 Electrical Systems – System Design – Engine Order Telegraphs I-5
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.3 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication I-6
Cite: 4-8-2/9.17.5 Electrical Systems – Electrical Design – Protection of Steering

Gear Motor Circuits I-6
I-i
Cite: 4-8-3/5.5.4 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment – Emergency

Switchboards – Instrumentation I-7
Cite: 4-8-3/9.1 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment – Cables I-7
Cite: 4-8-3/13 Electrical Systems –Electrical Equipment – Certified Safe

4-8-4/27.5 Equipment – Certificated Safe Equipment in Hazardous Areas I-7
Cite: 4-8-4/21.1.6 Electrical Systems – Shipboard Installation and Tests – Paint Cables I-7
Cite: 4-9-1/7 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General – Required

Plans and Data I-7
Cite: 4-9-1/5.1.10 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General – Safety

& 4-9-1/9.9 Systems I-9
Cite: 4-9-2/1&3 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – Remote Propulsion

Control – Application – System Requirements I-9
Cite: 4-9-2/5 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – Remote Propulsion

Control – Control on Navigation Bridge I-9
Cite: 4-9-3/1 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC – Application I-9
Cite: 4-9-3/3 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC/ACCU –

System Requirements I-10

Monitoring in Centralized Control Station I-10
Cite: 4-9-3/13.9.1, Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC/ACCU –

4-9-4/3.7, Continuity of Power – Starting Generators – Power Supply
15.1, & and Single Generator Operation
4-8-2/3.11 I-10
Cite: 4-9-3/15.5.1 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC/ACCU –

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems I-10

Propulsion Machinery Space – Fire Safety – Fire Main System I-10
Cite: 5C-1-7/1.9.1 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk –
Cargo Oil and Associated Systems – Cargo Oil Having Flash Point
Exceeding 60°C (140°F) I-10
Cite: 5C-1-1/1.13 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk –
Pressure Vacuum Valves and High Velocity Vent Valves I-10
I - ii
Cargo Oil System I-11
Ballast System I-11
Cite: 5C-1-7/9 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk –
Cargo Heating Systems I-11
Cargo Vapor Emission Control Systems I-11
Cite: 5C-1-7 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk I-12
Cite: 5C-1-7/ Cargo Tank Venting/Protection for Tank Overpressurization/

11.11.2 PV Valve Setting I-12
Cite: 5C-8-10 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied

Gases in Bulk I-12
Cite: 5C-9-10 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Chemicals

in Bulk I-12
Cite: 5C-10-2 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Vehicles I-12
Cite: 5C-2 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk
(Under 150 Meters in Length) I-12
Cite: 5C-8-1/1 Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases in Bulk and Vessels
& 5C-9-1/1 Intended to Carry Chemicals in Bulk – General I-12
Cite: 5C-8-5/1 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases
in Bulk – Process Pressure Vessels and Liquid, Vapor, and Pressure
Piping Systems I-12
Cite: 5C-8-19 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases
in Bulk – Summary of Minimum Requirements – Explanatory Notes
to the Summary of Minimum Requirements I-13
Cite: 6/5.5 Vessels Intended to Carry Passengers – Automatic Sprinkler Systems

(Passenger Vessel Guide) I-13
I - iii
Cite: 1-1-5/1 Other Regulations – General
Cargo Gear is to be certified in accordance with the ABS “Requirements for Certification of
Construction and Survey of Cargo Gear on Merchant Vessels”, 1975 or the Guide for
Certification of Cranes, 1991 as applicable for the type of cargo gear being provided.
As an alternative, evidence of approval by the International Cargo Gear Bureau may be

submitted.
Cite: 3-3-1/3.1 Intact Stability
Intact stability for cargo and passenger vessels is to comply with the applicable parts of
Subchapter S. It has been determined that IMO Resolution MSC.267 (85), “International Code
on Intact Stability, 2008” (2008 IS Code) is equivalent to the intact stability requirements of
Subchapter S. Where the intact stability requirements contained in IMO Resolution MSC.267
(85) are used, the Regulations contained in Subparts B, Lifting, and E, Towing, of Subchapter S
are also to be satisfied, where applicable. All recommendations that appear in the 2008 IS Code
on Intact Stability are required and considered mandatory.
Cite: 3-3-1/3.3 Damage Stability
Relative to damage stability, please note that all dry cargo vessels over 80 meters (262.5 ft) in
length that change flag to US shall be considered to be new vessels for compliance with the
probabilistic damage stability regulations in SOLAS, 1974, as amended, Chapter II-1, regardless
of the actual build date.
Cite: 4-3-4/13 Steering Gear – Control Systems
The main steering gear is to be provided with full follow-up control in the pilothouse. Follow-up
control means closed-loop (feedback) control that relates the position of the helm to a specific
rudder angle by transmitting the helm-angle order to the power actuating system and, by means
of feedback, automatically stopping the rudder when the angle selected by the helm is reached.
Cite: 4-3-4/15 Steering Gear – Instrumentation and Alarms
This requirement applies to each vessel of 1600 gross tons and over that has power driven main
or auxiliary steering gear. The steering failure alarm system must be independent of each
steering gear control system, except for the input received from the steering wheel shaft.
The steering failure alarm system must have audible and visible alarms in the pilothouse when
the actual position of the rudder differs by more than 5° from the rudder position ordered by the
follow-up control systems for more than:
(a) 30 seconds for ordered rudder position changes of 70°,
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(b) 6.5 seconds for ordered rudder position changes of 5°, and
(c) The time period calculated by the following formula for ordered rudder position changes
between 5° and 70°:
t = (R/2.76) + 4.64
Where:
t = maximum time delay in seconds
R = ordered rudder change in degrees (°)
Each steering failure alarm system must be supplied by a circuit that is independent of other
steering gear systems and steering alarm circuits.
Cite: 4-4-1/1 Boilers and Pressure Vessels and Heat Exchangers
Boilers, pressure vessels and heat exchangers are to comply with the requirements specified in 4-
4-1 of the 2011 ABS Steel Vessels Rules or the ASME Code. Boilers, pressure vessels and heat
exchangers manufactured to any other standard will be considered on a case-by-case basis in
coordination with the Marine Safety Center.
Cite: 4-6-2/5.11 Piping Systems – Metallic Piping – Valves
A valve in which the closure is accomplished by resilient nonmetallic material instead of a metal
to metal seat shall comply with the design, material and construction specified below. Valves
employing resilient material shall be divided into three categories; Positive shutoff, Category A
and Category B and shall be tested and used as follows:
 Positive Shutoff Valves – The closed valve must pass less than 10 ml/hr (0.34 fluid oz/hr) of
liquid or 3 liters/hr (0.11 ft 3/hr) of gas per inch nominal pipe size through the line after
removal of all resilient material and testing at full rated pressure. Packing material must be
fire resistant. Piping subject to internal head pressure from a tank containing oil (fuel, lube
and cargo) must be fitted with a positive shutoff valve at the tank. See 4-6-4/13.5.3 of the
Rules for additional requirements for such valves. Positive shutoff valves may also be used in
any location in lieu of a required Category A or Category B valve.
 Category A Valves – The closed valve must pass less than the greater of 5% of its fully open
flow rate or 15% / ( NPS) of its fully open flow rate through the line after removal of all
resilient material and testing at full rated pressure. Category A valves may be used in any
piping system except where positive shutoff valves are required. Category A valves are
required in the following locations:
- Valves at vital piping (Fuel, Fire Main, CO2, Halon, Bilge, Steering, Propulsion and its
necessary auxiliaries, Ship’s Service and Emergency Electrical Generation) system
manifolds;
I-2
- Isolation valves in cross-connects between two piping systems, at least one of which is a
vital system, where failure of the valve in a fire would prevent the vital system(s) from
functioning as designed;
- Valves providing closure for any opening in the shell of the vessel.
 Category B Valves – The closed valve will not provide effective closure of the line or will
permit appreciable leakage from the valve after the resilient material is damaged or
destroyed. Category B valves are not required to be tested and may be used in any location
except where a Category A or Positive shutoff valve is required.
If a valve designer elects to use either calculations or actual fire testing in lieu of material
removal and pressure testing, the proposed calculation method or test plan must be accepted by
the Commandant.
Cite: 4-6-3 Piping Systems – Plastic Piping
Pipes and piping components made of thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic materials, with or
without reinforcement, are to conform to IMO Res. A.753(18). Piping required to meet flame, fire
endurance, and/or smoke generation/toxicity requirements of A.753(18) must be USCG type
approved. In lieu of meeting the smoke and toxicity requirements of A.753(18), plastic pipe located
in concealed areas of an accommodation, control or service space must meet one of the following:
(1) The trunk or duct containing the plastic pipe must be surrounded by an “A” class division; or (2)
the concealed space containing the pipe must be fitted with approved smoke detection and
penetrations of a bulkhead or deck and each draft stop installation shall maintain integrity of the fire
divisions.
Cite: 4-7-3/1 Fire Safety Systems – Fire-Extinguishing Systems and Equipment –

Fire Mains
Fire mains may not be used for other than fire, deck wash or tank cleaning services unless
specific provisions are included in the system design which ensure that system availability and
performance requirements to fight shipboard fires are not compromised.
All distribution valves in the fire main system shall be distinctly marked to indicate the
compartments or parts of the vessel to which they lead.
Material selection for piping and components shall be in accordance with 46 CFR 56.60 or
ASTM F1155. Brass or bronze materials may be used in accordance with these standards.
USCG acceptable category “A” valves may be used in fire main systems.
Cite: 4-8-2/3.11 Electrical Systems – System Design – System Arrangement
Time for starting and connection to the main switchboard must be both not more than 30 seconds
and less than the time to start and connect the emergency generator to the emergency
switchboard.
I-3
Cite: 4-8-2/5.9.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Sources of Power –

Power Supply – Generator
A stop control for an emergency generator must only be in the space that has the emergency
generator, except a remote mechanical reach rod is permitted for the fuel oil shutoff valve to an
independent fuel oil tank located in the space.
Cite: 4-8-2/5.13 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Switchboard
Each bus-tie between a main switchboard and an emergency switchboard must be arranged to
prevent parallel operation of the emergency power source with any other source of electric
power, except for interlock systems for momentary transfer of loads.
If there is a reduction of potential of the normal source by 15% to 40%, the final emergency
power source must start automatically without load. When the potential of the final emergency
source reaches 85% to 95% of normal value, the emergency loads must transfer automatically to
the final emergency power source. When the potential from the normal source has been restored,
the emergency loads must be manually or automatically transferred to the normal source, and the
final emergency power source must be manually or automatically stopped.
Cite: 4-8-2/5.19 Electrical Systems – System Design – Alarms and Safeguards –

Emergency Switchboard
Three means of shutdowns are required: low L.O. Pressure, Overspeed and upon release of the
Fixed Fire-Extinguishing System in the Emergency generator room.
Cite: 4-8-2/7.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Cable Sizing

& 7.7
MCC and Lighting cables are not permitted a decrease in size if interlocks are employed.
Cite: 4-8-2/11.3 Electrical Systems – System Design – Navigation Light System
Each navigation light must meet the following:
(a) Meet the technical details of the applicable navigation rules.
(b) Be certified by an independent laboratory to the requirements of UL 1104 or an equivalent

standard.
(c) Be labeled with a label stating the following:
(1) “MEETS ” (Insert the identification name or number of the

standard under paragraph (b) above to which the light was tested.)
(2) “TESTED BY ” (Insert the name or registered certification mark of

the independent laboratory that tested the fixture to the standard under paragraph (b)
above.)
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(3) Manufacturer’s name.
(4) Model number.
(5) Visibility of the light in nautical miles.
(6) Date on which the fixture was Type Tested.
(7) Identification of the bulb used in the compliance test.
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.1 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication System Design –

& 11.5.5 General – Power Supply
Means of communications are to be provided between the navigation bridge and the engineer
officer's accommodation for vessels with minimally attended or periodically unattended
machinery spaces.
The voice communication system power supply must ensure sufficient redundancy and capacity
to be considered able to operate independent of the vessel's electrical system in which the loss of
any one system component will not disable the rest of the system.
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.2 Electrical Systems – System Design – Engine Order Telegraphs
On a vessel with more than one propulsion engine, each engine must have an engine order
telegraph. On a double-ended vessel that has two navigating bridges, this system must be
between the engine room and each navigating bridge.
On vessels equipped with pilothouse control, each local control station in the engine room must
have an indicator if the local control station is not immediately adjacent to the engine room
control station.
Engine order telegraph and remote propulsion control systems must be electrically separate and
independent, except that a single mechanical operator control device with separate transmitters
and connections for each system may be used.
Each vessel with navigating bridge throttle control must have a positive mechanical stop on each
telegraph transmitter that prevents movement to the “Navigating Bridge Control” position
without positive action by the operator.
Electric Engine Order Telegraph System
Where two or more transmitters, located on or on top of, or on the wings of, the navigating
bridge operate a common indicator in the engine room, all transmitter handles and pointers must
operate in synchronism or operate under the control of a transmitter transfer control as described
below. Where the transmitters are mechanically interlocked to effect synchronous operation, a
failure of a wire or chain at any transmitter must not interrupt or disable any other transmitter.
I-5
• Transmitter Transfer Control System: Except for a transmitter in an unattended

navigating bridge on a double-ended vessel, each transmitter must operate under the
control of a transmitter transfer control so that movement of any one transmitter handle
automatically connects that transmitter electrically to the engine room indicator and
simultaneously disconnects electrically all other transmitters. The reply pointers of all
transmitters must operate in synchronism at all times.
On a double-ended vessel that has two navigating bridges, a manually operated transfer switch
which will disconnect the system in the unattended navigating bridge must be provided.
Each electric engine order telegraph system must have transmitters and indicators that are
electrically connected to each other.
Each engine room indicator must be capable of acknowledgment of orders.
Each system must have an alarm on the navigating bridge that automatically sounds and visually
signals a loss of power to the system. The alarm is to be provided with means to reduce the
audible signal from 100% to not less than 50%.
Mechanical Engine Order Telegraph System
Each mechanical engine order telegraph system must consist of transmitters and indicators
mechanically connected to each other.
Each transmitter and each indicator must have an audible signal device to indicate, in the case of
an indicator, the receipt of an order, and in the case of a transmitter, the acknowledgment of an
order. The audible signal device must not be dependent upon any source of power for operation
other than that of the movement of the transmitter or indicator handle.
If more than one transmitter operates a common indicator in the engine room, all transmitters
much be mechanically interlocked and operate in synchronism. Where the transmitters are
mechanically interlocked to effect synchronous operation, a failure of a wire or chain at any
transmitter must not interrupt or disable any other transmitter.
Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.3 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication
A sound-powered telephone system or other reliable voice communication method must be

installed that is independent of the vessel's electrical system (Ref: 46 CRF 113.30-3(b)).
Cite: 4-8-2/9.17.5 Electrical Systems – Electrical Design – Protection of Steering Gear

Motor Circuits
(a) AC Steering Gear motors. The steering gear feeder must be provided with instantaneous trip
protection (no overload protection allowed)
I-6
Cite: 4-8-3/5.5.4 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment – Emergency

Switchboards – Instrumentation
Each AC switchboard must have a voltage regulator functional cut-out switch for transferring
from automatic to manual control mode and a manual control rheostat for exciter field. This is
not applicable if the exited current for the emergency generator is provided by attached rotating
exciters of by static exciters deriving their source of power from the machines controlled.
A static exciter is prohibited by 46 CFR 111.12-3 for the emergency generator, unless the
generator is provided with a permanent magnet or residual magnetism type exciter that has the
capability of voltage build-up after two month of no operation.
Cite: 4-8-3/9.1 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment - Cables
IEC 60092-3, IEC 60092-350 and IEC 60072-353 are acceptable cable constructions standards to
be used.
For electric cables in hazardous areas, the electric cable construction and the cable glands are to
achieve the appropriate seal so that gas cannot migrate or pass through the cable.
Cite: 4-8-3/13 Electrical Systems –Electrical Equipment – Certified Safe Equipment –

4-8-4/27.5 Certificated Safe Equipment in Hazardous Areas
IEC certificated safe equipment must be tested or approved under the IECEx scheme and
certification body must be recognized by the Commandant (i.e., certification under the ATEX
scheme is not acceptable). See Section II/Cite: II-1/45.
Intrinsically safe systems or associated apparatus must meet the following “Ex ia” for Zones 0
and 1 (Class I, Division 1); and “Ex ib” for Zone 2 (Class I, Division 2).
Cite: 4-8-4/21.1.6 Electrical Systems – Shipboard Installation and Tests – Paint Cables
Painting of cables is not permitted.
Cite: 4-9-1/7 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General – Required

Plans and Data
The degree of remote propulsion control and automation is to be based on the level of manning
intended for the propulsion machinery space. Where it is intended to obtain USCG certification
for a minimally attended machinery space, the ABS ACC requirements as well as the additional
Cites contained in this Supplement are applicable.
Where it is intended to obtain USCG certification for an unattended machinery space, the ABS
ACCU requirements as well as the additional Cites contained in this Supplement are applicable.
I-7
Note: It is the Owner’s responsibility to advise ABS as to the level of manning of the
propulsion machinery space that will requested from the USCG.
One copy of a qualitative failure analysis must be submitted for propulsion controls,
microprocessor-based system hardware, safety controls, automated electric power management,
automation required to be independent that is not physically separate and any other automation
that in the judgment of the reviewing authority potentially constitutes a safety hazard to the
vessel or personnel in case of failure. The QFA should enable the designer to eliminate single
points of failure.
Note: The qualitative failure analysis is intended to assist in evaluating the safety and reliability
of the design. It should be conducted to a level of detail necessary to demonstrate
compliance with applicable requirements and should follow standard qualitative analysis
procedures. Assumptions, operating conditions considered, failures considered, cause and
effect relationships, how failures are detected by the crew, alternatives available to the
crew, and necessary design verification tests should be included. Questions regarding
failure analysis should be referred to the reviewing authority at an early stage of design.
A Design Verification test is to be performed once, immediately after the installation of the
automated equipment or before issuance of the initial Certificate of Inspection (and thereafter
whenever major changes are made to the system or its software), to verify that automated
systems are designed, constructed and operate in accordance with the applicable ABS rules and
requirements of this supplement. The purpose of design verification testing is to verify the
conclusions of the QFA. The Design Verification Test Procedure (DVTP) is therefore an
extension of the QFA and the two may be combined into one document. The DVTP should
demonstrate that all system failures are alarmed and that all switchovers from a primary system
component to a back-up component are also alarmed.
Periodic Safety tests must be conducted annually to demonstrate the proper operation of the
primary and alternate controls, alarms, power sources, transfer override arrangements, interlocks
and safety controls. Systems addressed must include fire detection and extinguishing, flooding
safety, propulsion, maneuvering, electric power generation and distribution and emergency
internal communications. Table 1 of Section 4-9-2 of ABS SVR, Table 2 of 4-9-3 and Tables 3
through 8 of 4-9-4, as applicable to the vessel’s installed machinery and level of manning, should
be used as a guide in developing the Periodic Safety Test Procedure (PSTP).
Design Verification and Periodic Safety test procedures are to be submitted for approval and
retained aboard the vessel. Test procedure documents must be in a step-by-step or check off list
format. Each test instruction must specify equipment status, apparatus necessary to perform the
tests, safety precautions, safety control and alarm set points, the procedure to the followed, and
the expected test result. Test techniques must not simulate monitored system conditions by
maladjustment, artificial signals, improper wiring, tampering, or revision of the system unless the
test would damage equipment or endanger personnel. Where a test meeting the restrictions on
test techniques will damage equipment or endanger personnel, an alternative test method shall be
proposed together with an explanation of why it is an equivalent test.
It is important to remember that the DVTP tests the response of the automation system to
component failures within the system as predicted by the QFA and that the PSTP tests the
I-8
performance of the automation system, its sensors, alarms, and actuators, and the interconnecting
wiring. The design verification and periodic safety tests are to be witnessed by the surveyor. The
OCMI must be notified prior to testing and may choose to attend these tests to verify that vital
system automation is appropriate to the level of manning requested on the vessel’s Certificate of
Inspection.
Vessels with minimally attended or periodically unattended machinery plants must have a
planned maintenance program to ensure continued safe operation of all vital systems. The
program must include maintenance and repair manuals for work to be accomplished by
maintenance personnel and check off lists for routine inspection and maintenance procedures.
The planned maintenance program must be functioning prior to the completion of the evaluation
period for reduced manning.
Maintenance and repair manuals must include details as to what, when and how to troubleshoot,
repair and test the installed equipment and what parts are necessary to accomplish the
procedures. Schematic and logic diagrams must be included in this documentation. Manuals
must clearly delineate information that is not applicable to the installed equipment.
A set of Coast Guard approved automation testing procedures shall be maintained on board and
made available upon request.
Cite: 4-9-1/5.1.10 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General –

& 4-9-1/9.9 Safety Systems
Safety systems must not operate as a result of failure of the normal electric power source unless
it is determined to be the failsafe state.
Cite: 4-9-2/1&3 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – Remote Propulsion

Control – Application – System Requirements
Sensors for the primary speed, pitch or direction of rotation control in closed loop propulsion
control systems must be independent and physically separate from required safety, alarm or
instrumentation sensors.
Cite: 4-9-2/5 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – Remote Propulsion

Control – Control on Navigation Bridge
An alarm to indicate starting capability of less than 50% of the requirement total starting
capacity must be provided.
Cite: 4-9-3/1 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC – Application
Propulsion control from the Navigating Bridge is to be provided.
I-9

System Requirements
A personnel alarm must be provided and must annunciate on the Navigating Bridge if not
routinely acknowledged at the centralized control station or in the machinery space.
Monitoring in Centralized Control Station
All required alarms must annunciate throughout the Centralized Control Station and the
machinery space.
Cite: 4-9-3/13.9.1, Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – ACC/ACCU –

4-9-4/3.7, Continuity of Power – Starting Generators – Power Supply
15.1, & and Single Generator Operation
4-8-2/3.11
The standby electric power is to be available in no more than 30 seconds.

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
The fire detection and alarm system of approved type must activate all alarms at the Centralized
Control Station, the Navigating Bridge, and throughout the machinery spaces and engineer’s
accommodations.

Propulsion Machinery Space – Fire Safety – Fire Main System
The Centralized Control Station must include control of the main machinery space fire pumps.
Where one or more fire pumps is required to be independent of the main machinery space, at
least one of such pumps must be controlled from the Navigating Bridge. See Section II/Cite
II-2/7.2
All required fire pump control locations must include the controls necessary to charge the fire
main and have (1) a fire main pressure indicator or (2) a fire main low pressure alarm.
Cite: 5C-1-7/1.9.1 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk – Cargo
Oil and Associated Systems - Cargo Oil Having Flash Point Exceeding
60° C (140° F)
See Section II/Cite: II-1/45 “The requirements of 5C-1-7/31.5.1(i) are applicable to cargo tanks.”
Pressure Vacuum Valves and High Velocity Vent Valves
Pressure vacuum relief valves and high velocity vent valves installed on tank vessels must be
USCG approved equipment.
I - 10
Cite: 5C-1-7/3.3 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk – Cargo
Oil System
The provisions in 5C-1-7/3.3.4(a) of the Rules, which permit the unrestricted routing of cargo
piping through ballast tanks for vessels less than 5000 tons deadweight, is not acceptable on U.S.
flagged vessels.
The requirements of 4-6-4/13.5.3 of the Rules for positive closing valves to be fitted on pipes
emanating from fuel oil tanks which are subject to a static head of oil are also applicable to pipes
from cargo oil tanks which are subject to a static head of oil.
Ballast System
The provisions in 5C-1-7/5.3.2(a) of the Rules, which permit the unrestricted routing of ballast
piping through cargo tanks for vessels less than 5000 tons deadweight, is not acceptable on U.S.
flagged vessels.
Cargo Heating Systems
A thermal fluid heater must be fitted with a control which prevents the heat transfer fluid from
being heated above its flash point.
Cargo Vapor Emission Control Systems
In addition to meeting the requirements 5C-1-7/21 for Cargo Vapor Emission Control Systems :
(a) Personnel training should be verified.
(b) Connections on hoses and manifolds must be properly marked with a yellow band 0.8 m
(2.64 ft) long between two red bands 0.1 m (.33 ft) long with the word “VAPOR” in
black letters at least 50 mm (2 in) high on the yellow band.
Note: Oil Companies International Marine Forum Recommendation for Oil Tanker
Manifolds and Associated Equipment, 4th Ed., has an alternative marking
arrangement for vessel manifolds that is acceptable. The difference is that
reducers on manifolds, where they are used, are lettered (at 2 and 10 o’clock) with
the word “vapor”. That word does not need to be painted on the last meter of pipe
that is before the flange.
(c) Manifold flanges should have a stud and the hose/loading arm flange should have a hole.
(d) Markings for overfill protection outside the control room should be in 50 mm (2 in) high
black letters on a white background.
I - 11
(g) Each cargo tank shall have arrangements that allow oxygen measurements to be taken at
a point 1m (3.3 ft) below the tank top and from a point at half the ullage prior to cargo
transfer when cargo vapor is collected by a facility that requires the vapor from the vessel
to be inerted, or when cargo vapor is transferred between vessels during lightering or
topping off operations with vapor balancing.
Cite: 5C-1-7 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk
5C-1-7/31 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk –

Electrical Installations
5C-8-10 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied

Gases in Bulk
5C-9-10 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Chemicals

in Bulk
5C-10-2 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Vehicles
Section II: Cite: II-1/45 applies.
5C-1-7 /11.11.2 Cargo Tank Venting/Protection for Tank Overpressurization/

PV Valve Setting
The calculations submitted to show that the cargo tanks will not be subjected to a pressure or
vacuum in excess of their design pressure must also show that the P/V valve setting will not be
exceeded.
Cite: 5C-2 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk
(Under 150 Meters in Length)
The cites associated with chapter 5C-1 apply to vessels to which chapter 5C-2 is applied.
Cite: 5C-8-1/1 Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases in Bulk and Vessels
& 5C-9-1/1 Intended to Carry Chemicals in Bulk – General
Refer to Sections VII and VIII for Interpretations and Guidance for IBC and IGC Code
Authorization on behalf of the USCG for the issuance of an International Certificate of Fitness.
Cite: 5C-8-5/1 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases
in Bulk – Process Pressure Vessels and Liquid, Vapor, and Pressure
Piping Systems
Cargo containment systems and piping systems carrying nitrogen, other than for deck tanks and
their piping systems, must be USCG approved equipment.
Safety relief valves for liquefied compressed gas service must be USCG approved equipment.
I - 12
Cite: 5C-8-19 Specific Vessel Types – Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases
in Bulk – Summary of Minimum Requirements – Explanatory Notes
to the Summary of Minimum Requirements
A liquefied gas not included in the table in 5C-8-19 of ABS Rules must have USCG approval in
order to be carried in bulk in U.S. waters.
Cite: 6/5.5 Vessels Intended to Carry Passengers – Automatic Sprinkler Systems

(Passenger Vessel Guide)
Automatic sprinkler systems are to comply with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Standard 13-1996. Also see Section II, Cite II-2/10.6 and FSS Code Chapter 8 for additional
requirements. Where SOLAS and NFPA 13 have similar requirements, the higher standard is to
be satisfied. Note that the minimum design area required by SOLAS is 280m² (3,013 ft²).
I - 13
U. S. Supplement Section II
General – Equipment Approvals – Fire Equipment and Arrangements –

Navigation Equipment Approval for Ships II-1
A. Construction – Subdivision and Stability, Machinery and Electrical

Installations
Cite: II-1/43 Emergency Source of Electrical Power in Cargo Ships II-4
Cite: II-1/45 Precautions Against Shock, Fire and Other Hazards of Electrical
Origin II-4
B. Construction – Fire Protection, Fire Detection and Fire Extinction
Cite: II-2/3.1 Definitions – Accommodation Spaces II-4
Cite: II-2/4.2.2.5.1 Fuel Oil Piping II-4
Cite: II-2/10.2.1.1 Fire Main and Hydrants II-4
Cite: II-2/7.2 & Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems II-5
FSS Code
Chapter 9
Cite: II-2/7.4 Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems – Protection of
Machinery Spaces II-6
Cite: II-2/7.2 & Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems – Installation
FSS Code Requirements II-6
Chapter 9.2.4
Cite: II-2/9.2.3.1 Structural Fire Protection – Method of Protection in

Accommodation Area II-6
Cite: II-2/9.2.3.3 Fire Integrity of Bulkheads and Deck II-6
Cite: II-2/9.3.1 “A” Class Divisions Penetrations II-6
Cite: II-2/9.7.3 Duct Penetrations II-6
Cite: II-2/10.2.1.5 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants – Number and Position
of Hydrants II-7
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.1.1 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and
Nozzles – Fire Hoses II-7
II - i
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.2.1 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and
Nozzles – Fire Hoses II-7
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.3 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and
Nozzles – Nozzles II-7
Cite: II-2/10.3 & Portable Fire Extinguishers/ Fire Extinguishers II-7

FSS Code
Chapter 4
Cite: II-2/10.4 & Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems – Fixed Gas Fire-

FSS Code Extinguishing Systems II-8
Chapter 5
Cite: II-2/10.4 & Fixed Gas Fire-Extinguishing Systems – Carbon Dioxide

FSS Code Systems II-8
Chapter 5.2.2
Cite: II-2/10.4.1.1.3, Fixed Pressure Water Mist Fire-Extinguishing Systems

10.5 & in Machinery Spaces II-8
FSS Code
Chapter 7
Cite: II-2/10.5.4 Fire-Extinguishing Arrangements in Machinery Spaces –

Other Machinery Spaces – Incinerator Space II-8
Cite: II-2/10.6 Automatic Sprinkler, Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems
for Accommodation and Service Spaces II-8
Cite: II-2/10.10.3 Storage of Fireman’s Outfits II-9
Cite: II-2/13 Means of Escape II-9
Cite: II-2/13 Miscellaneous Items II-9
C. Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements
Cite: III/3 Definitions II-9
Cite: III/4 Evaluation, Testing and Approval of Life-Saving Appliances

and Arrangements II-10
Cite: III/6 Communications II-12
Cite: III/7 Personal Life-Saving Appliances II-12
Cite: III/8 Muster List and Emergency Instructions II-12

II - ii
Cite: III/11 Survival Craft Muster and Embarkation Arrangements II-12
Cite: III/13 Stowage of Survival Craft II-12
Cite: III/18 Line-Throwing Appliances II-13
Cite: III/33 Survival Craft Embarkation and Launching Arrangements II-13
Cite: III/34 & Launching Appliances Using Falls and a Winch

LSA Code
VI 6.1.2 II-13

LSA Code
VI 6.1.2.9 II-13
D. Radiocommunications
Cite: IV/1.4 Radiocommunications – Application II-13
E. Safety of Navigation
Cite: V/22 Navigation Bridge Visibility II-14
II - iii
General
Equipment Approvals
Approvals of safety equipment, materials and installations are covered by regulations contained
in 46 CFR 2.75. For U.S. flag vessels, specific and type approvals for fire suppression
equipment, structural fire protection materials and life-saving appliances are performed by the
USCG as mandated by SOLAS 1974, generally through independent laboratory testing and
inspection. Provisions within the 1996 USCG Authorization Act also allow the use of equipment
approved by or on behalf of other governments under certain circumstances. In the case of life-
saving appliances, there must be a reciprocal agreement in place before equipment approved by
that country could be used on a U.S. vessel. ACP does not change the requirements to use USCG
approved materials and equipment. Therefore, class society approvals cannot be used to fulfill
the obligations of the USCG, as an Administration, where type approval is required by the
regulations.
The USCG approves applicable “SOLAS” lifesaving equipment using the IMO LSA Code. For fire
protection items, the USCG approves “SOLAS” materials using the IMO Fire Test Procedures
Code and the IMO Fire Safety Systems Code.
Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) exists between the U.S. and the European Community
(EC), and the U.S. and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which address a limited
number of items of fire protection, lifesaving, and navigation equipment. The MRA makes it
possible for a manufacturer with a European Approval (MED/wheelmark) to obtain USCG
approval for certain equipment covered by the MRA. This is accomplished by permitting the
“Notified Bodies” responsible for issuing approvals in Europe to issue USCG approval. Likewise,
the USCG is able to issue the European Approval (MED/wheelmark) for manufacturers having a
USCG approval if the item is included within the scope of the MRA. It is important to note that this
MRA does not change the requirement of using USCG approved equipment and materials on U.S.
Flag vessels. It allows an alternative means for obtaining USCG approval. The European Marine
Equipment Directive (MED) “wheelmark” is not accepted in lieu of USCG approval. Further
guidance is contained in NVIC 8-04 and NVIC 8-04 Change 1.
Fire Equipment and Arrangements

USCG type-approved materials and equipment from both U.S. and foreign sources approved in
accordance with the procedures contained in 46 CFR 159 will continue to be acceptable, and
those items manufactured in a country with which the United States has a Mutual Recognition
Agreement in force or the USCG has found to have an equivalent approval program will also be
acceptable.
As discussed above, the following structural fire protection materials approved by the MRA may
be used in lieu of USCG type approved materials for ACP vessels.
II - 1
USCG Approved
Item Category
Deck assembly 164.105
Primary deck covering 164.106
Structural insulation (“A” and “B” class) 164.107
Bulkhead panels (“B” class) 164.108
Non-combustible material 164.109
Structural ceiling 164.110
Draperies, curtains, and other suspended textiles 164.111
Interior finish 164.112
Floor coverings 164.117
Fire doors (“A” and “B” class): limited to doors without windows or with
total window area no more than 645 cm 2 (100 in2) in each door leaf.
Approval limited to maximum door size tested. Doors must be used with
fire tested frame design. 164.136
Windows* (see note below) 164.137
Penetration seals (fire stops) 164.138
Dampers 164.139
Bedding components 164.142
Upholstered furniture 164.144
Fire door control system 164.146
*Note: the following table must be used to determine when the applicable hose stream and
thermal radiation test are required for “A” and “B” class windows.
Hose Stream Test Heat Flux Test

Window Dimension Classification Required? Required?
≤645 cm2 (100 in2) A-Class No No
≥645 cm2 (100 in2) A-Class Yes Yes
>645 cm2 (100 in2) A-0 Yes No
≤ 645 cm2 (100 in2) B-15 No No
>645 cm2 (100 in2) B-15 No Yes
Any dimension B-0 No No
II - 2
Navigation Equipment Approvals for Ships

USCG
Approved
Equipment Name Category*
GENERAL
Magnetic Compass 165.101
Transmitting Magnetic Heading Device (TMHD) 165.102
Gyrocompass 165.103
Speed and Distance Indicating Device 165.105
Rate of Turn Indicator 165.106
Echo Sounding Equipment 165.107
Heading Control System 165.110
Auto-Tracking Aid 165.111
Track Control 165.112
Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) 165.120
Electronic Plotting Aid 165.121
Chart Facilities for Shipborne Radar 165.122
Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) 165.123
ECDIS Back-up Equipment 165.124
Raster Chart Display Systems (RCDS) 165.125
Global Positioning System Equipment (GPS) 165.130
Global Navigation Satellite System Equipment (GLONASS) 165.131
Differential Global Position System (DGPS) 165.132
Differential Global Navigation Satellite System Equipment 165.133
(DGLONASS)
Combined Global Position System and Global Navigation Satellite 165.134
System Receiver Equipment (GPS/GLONASS)
Loran-C Equipment 165.135
Chayka Equipment 165.136
Integrated Bridge System 165.140
Integrated Navigational System 165.141
Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) 165.150
Automatic Identification System (AIS) 165.155
Radar Reflector 165.160
Sound Reception System 165.165
Daylight Signaling Lamp 165.166
Gyrocompass for High Speed Craft 165.203
Automatic Steering Aid for High Speed Craft 165.210
Night Vision Equipment for High Speed Craft 165.251
Radar Equipment with Electronic Plotting Aid 165.117
*For detail USCG Approval Process for the above-listed equipment please refer to NVIC 8-01.
II - 3
A. Construction – Subdivision and Stability, Machinery and Electrical

Installations
Cite: II-1/43 Emergency Source of Electrical Power in Cargo Ships
There must be visible indicators in the machinery space to show when the automatically
controlled emergency power source is supplying the emergency loads.
Cite: II-1/45 Precautions Against Shock, Fire and Other Hazards of Electrical
Origin
“Standards not inferior to those acceptable to the Organization” means standards contained in
only one of the following sources:
(a) Part 5, Chapter 1, Section 7 “Cargo Oil and Associated Systems,” 31 “Electrical
Installations” of the 2006 edition of ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels. (Note: The reference to SOLAS regulation II-2/56 should instead be made to
SOLAS regulation II-2/4.5 and II-2/9.2.4.2.5);
(b) The requirements of 46 CFR 111.105; or
(c) IEC 60092-502: 1999 “Electrical installations in ships – tankers” as supplemented by
interpretations and additional requirements of IEC 60092-502: 1999 issued by the
U.S. Coast Guard in April 2009.
(d) Any U.S. flagged OSV that operates seaward of the boundary line and that is certified
to carry hazardous or NLS cargoes must comply with CG-522 Policy Letter 09-01
“POLICY ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION A.673(16) FOR U.S.
OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS” (as amended).
B. Construction – Fire Protection, Fire Detection and Fire Extinction
Cite: II-2/3.1 Definitions – Accommodation Spaces
“A pantry containing no cooking appliances” is one which contains only low heat warming
equipment, has steel furnishings and is not used as a storeroom for cleaning gear, linen supplies
or any other combustible material. A dining room containing such appliances shall not be
regarded as a pantry.
Cite: II-2/4.2.2.5.1 Fuel Oil Piping
The use of heat sensitive materials is prohibited in piping systems conveying flammable or
combustible products. Heat sensitive materials are those having a solidus melting point below
1700° F.
Cite: II-2/10.2.1.1 Fire Main and Hydrants
Material Selection for piping and components shall be in accordance with 46 CFR 56.60 or
ASTM F1155. Brass or bronze materials may be used in accordance with these standards.
II - 4
Valves employing resilient material may be used in firemain systems provided they are USCG
acceptable Category “A” or positive shutoff valves per 46 CFR 56.20-15.
Cite: II-2/7.2 Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems

FSS Code
Chapter 9
Fire protection systems must be USCG approved equipment.
A conductor must not be used as a common return from more than one zone.
Each connection box must be constructed in accordance with NEMA 250 Type 4 or 4X, or IEC
IP56 requirements (46 CFR 113.10-7).
There must be at least two sources of power for the electrical equipment of each fire detecting
and alarm system. The normal source must be the main power source. The other source must be
the emergency power source or an automatically charged battery. If the other source is an
automatically charged battery, the charger must be supplied from the emergency power source
Upon loss of power to the system from the normal source, the system must be automatically
supplied from the other source.
The capacity of each branch circuit providing power to a fire detection or alarm system must not
be less than 125 percent of the maximum load.
An alarm on one fire detection circuit shall not interfere with the normal operation of any other
circuit (46 CFR Part 161.002).
Each fire detecting zone must not include spaces on more than one deck, except:
(a) Adjacent and communicating spaces on different decks in the ends of the vessel having a
combined ceiling area of not more than 279 m2 (3000 ft ²).
(b) Isolated rooms or lockers in such spaces as mast houses, wheelhouse top, etc., which are
easily communicable with the area of the fire-detecting circuit to which they are
connected.
(c) Systems with indicators for individual spaces.
The fire detecting zone must not contain more than 50 protected rooms or spaces.
The system must visually indicate the zone in which the alarm originated.
The detectors, control panel, manual call points and alarms must be listed in the approved
component list for the USCG approved system.
The fire detecting system must be used for no other purpose, except it may be incorporated with
the manual alarm system.
II - 5
A framed chart or diagram must be installed in the wheelhouse or control station adjacent to the
detecting cabinet indicating the location of the detecting zones and giving operating instructions.
Cite: II-2/7.4 Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems – Protection of
Machinery Spaces
The fire control station must include an indicating unit or a fire alarm annunciator that indicates
the machinery space that is on fire.
Cite: II-2/7.2 & Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems – Installation
FSS Code Requirements
Chapter 9.2.4
A sufficient number of call points must be employed such that a person escaping from any space
would find an alarm box convenient on the normal route of escape.
The manual alarm system must be used for no other purpose, except it may be incorporated with
the fire detecting system.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be clearly and permanently marked “IN CASE OF FIRE BREAK
GLASS” in at least 12.5 mm (½ in) letters.
Detector spacing shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. Detector

spacing in spaces with ceilings greater than 3 m (10 ft) must be corrected in accordance with
NFPA 72E.
Cite: II-2/9.2.3.1 Structural Fire Protection – Method of Protection in

Accommodation Area
Only Method IC shall be used.
Cite: II-2/9.2.3.3 Fire Integrity of Bulkheads and Deck
In accordance with 46 CFR 112.05-5(e) or 127.220, no compartment that has an emergency

power source or its vital components may adjoin a Category A machinery space or those spaces
containing the main source of electrical power and its vital components.
Cite: II-2/9.3.1 “A” Class Divisions Penetrations
Non-ducted ventilation arrangements are to comply with the guidance provided in NVIC 9-97,
CH 1.
Cite: II-2/9.7.3 Duct Penetrations
A large duct may not be subdivided into multiple smaller ducts when passing through a fire
boundary to avoid the requirement to install automatic fire dampers.
II - 6
Cite: II-2/10.2.1.5 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants – Number and Position
of Hydrants
At each fire hose valve there shall be marked in not less than 50 mm (2 in) red letters and figure:
“FIRE STATION.”
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.1.1 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and Nozzles –
Fire Hoses
Each section of fire hose shall be lined commercial fire hose that conforms to Underwriters’
Laboratories, Inc. Standard 19 or Federal Specification ZZ-H-451E.
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.2.1 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and Nozzles –
Fire Hoses
The minimum hydrant and hose size shall be 40 mm (1.5 in.).
On passenger and cargo ships over 1500 gross tons, the minimum hydrant and hose size for
interior and exterior locations is 65 mm (2.5 in.). For interior locations, where 65 mm (2.5 in)
hydrants and hose are required, two 40 mm (1.5 in) outlets with two 40 mm, (1.5 in) hoses
supplied through a siamese connection may be substituted.)
On tankships over 125 m (400 ft (L.O.A.), the minimum hydrant and hose size for exterior
locations is 65 mm (2.5 in.). Where 65 mm (2.5 in) hydrants and hose are required, two 40 mm
(1.5 in) outlets with two 40 mm, (1.5 in) hoses supplied through a Siamese connection may be
substituted. Please note that two hoses are required at exterior fire stations equipped with
Siamese fittings.
Where two 40 mm (1.5 in) hydrants and hoses are permitted in lieu of one 65 mm (2.5 in)
hydrant and hose, both of the outlets operating simultaneously are to be considered as a single
outlet for the purpose of complying with the minimum number of jets criteria for fire pump
capacity.
Cite: II-2/10.2.3.3 Fire Fighting, Fire Mains and Hydrants, Fire Hoses and Nozzles –
Nozzles
Nozzles must be USCG approved equipment.
Cite: II-2/10.3 & Portable Fire Extinguishers – Fire Extinguishers

FSS Code
Chapter 4
Fire extinguishers must be USCG type-approved equipment.
II - 7
Cite: II-2/10.4 & Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems – Fixed Gas Fire-Extinguishing

FSS Code Systems
Chapter 5.2.2
Carbon dioxide and clean agent systems, such as FM200, NOVEC 1230, Halon or Halon
substitutes, etc., are to be USCG Type Approved. The design and installation must be in
accordance with the USCG Type Approved manufacturer’s manual. Where SOLAS and the
USCG Type Approved manufacturer’s manual have dissimilar requirements (such as agent
required calculations) the higher standard is to be satisfied.
Markings
CO2 fire smothering apparatus shall be marked “CO2 FIRE APPARATUS” in not less than 50
mm (2 in) red letters.
Cite: II-2/10.4.1.1.3, Fixed Pressure Water Mist Fire-Extinguishing Systems

10.5 & in Machinery Spaces
FSS Code
Chapter 7
Water mist system requirements are outlined in IMO MSC/Circ.1165 for machinery spaces and
IMO Resolution A.800(19) for accommodation and service spaces. These guidelines are used in
conjunction with USCG Type Approved Manuals. Water spray system requirements are in FSS
Chapter 7.
Cite: II-2/10.5.4 Fire-Extinguishing Arrangements in Machinery Spaces – Other

Machinery Spaces – Incinerator Space
A fixed pressure water-spraying, fire extinguishing system is not acceptable by the USCG except
for lamp lockers, paint lockers and pump rooms. Where installed in these spaces, it shall comply
with Chapter 7 of the FSS Code and the following:
Water mist system requirements are outlined in IMO MSC/Circ.1165 for machinery spaces and
IMO Resolution A.800(19) for accommodation and service spaces. These guidelines are used in
conjunction with USCG Type Approved Manuals
Cite: II-2/10.6 Automatic Sprinkler, Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for
Accommodation and Service Spaces
Automatic sprinkler systems are also to comply with National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) Standard 13-1996. Where SOLAS Reg. II-2/12 and NFPA Std. 13 have similar
requirements, the higher standard is to be satisfied. The following supplemental requirements
apply:
The sprinkler heads, alarms, dry pipe valves, and actuating mechanisms shall be listed or
approved by a recognized independent testing lab.
II - 8
The control the minimum design area required by SOLAS is (280 m2) 3,013 ft2 cabinets or
spaces containing valves or manifolds shall be distinctly marked in conspicuous red letters at
least 50 mm (2 in) high “AUTOMATIC SPRINKLING SYSTEM.”
Cite: II-2/10.10.3 Storage of Fireman’s Outfits
Lockers or spaces where emergency equipment is stowed shall be marked: “EMERGENCY

EQUIPMENT”.
Cite: II-2/13 Means of Escape
The doors giving access to either of the two required means of escape shall not be lockable,
except that crash doors or locking devices, capable of being easily forced in an emergency, may
be employed provided that a permanent and conspicuous notice giving instructions on how to
open the door or the lock is attached to both sides of the door. This paragraph shall not apply to
outside doors to deckhouses where such doors are locked by key only, and such key is under
control of one of the vessel’s officers.
All public spaces having a deck area of over 28 m² (300 ft²) shall have at least two exits. Where
practicable, the exits shall give egress to different corridors, spaces, or rooms to minimize the
possibility of one incident blocking both means of escape.
All interior stairways, other than those within the Machinery Spaces or Cargo Holds, shall have a
minimum width of 0.71 m (28 in.). The angle of inclination with the horizontal of such stairways
shall not exceed 50º.
Cite: II-2/13 Miscellaneous Items
Small rooms or spaces having a secondary means of escape which is not obviously apparent shall
have a suitable sign in red letters “EMERGENCY EXIT” directing attention to such escape.
C. Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements (This supplement entry is

intended to add clarity to the various terms used but not clearly defined
in SOLAS.)
Cite: III/3 Definitions
“Accommodation” means a cabin or other covered or enclosed place intended to carry persons.
Each place where passengers are carried is considered an accommodation, whether or not it is
covered or enclosed. Accommodations include, but are not limited to halls, dining rooms, mess
rooms, lounges, corridors, lavatories, cabins, offices, hospitals, cinemas, game and hobby rooms,
and other similar spaces open to persons on board.
“Embarkation station” means the place where a survival craft is boarded.
II - 9
“Fleet angle for a wire rope leading to a winch drum” means the angle included between an
imaginary line from the lead sheave perpendicular to the axis of the drum and the line formed by
the wire rope when led from the lead sheave to either extremity of the drum.
“Marine evacuation system” means an appliance designed to rapidly transfer large numbers of
persons from an embarkation station by means of a passage to a floating platform for subsequent
embarkation into associated survival craft, or directly into associated survival craft.
“Muster station” means the place where the crew and passengers assemble before boarding a
survival craft.
“Seagoing condition” means the operating condition of the ship with the personnel, equipment,
fluids and ballast necessary for safe operation on the waters where the ship operates. For bottom-
bearing mobile offshore drilling units, the term also applies in the bottom-bearing mode, but the
“lightest seagoing condition” is considered to be the highest anticipated operating condition.
“Survival craft” means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of persons in distress after
abandoning the ship on which they were carried. The term includes lifeboats, liferafts, buoyant
apparatus, and life floats, but does not include rescue boats.
“Toxic vapor or gas” means a product for which emergency escape respiratory protection is
required under subchapter 17 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of
Ships carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code), and in subchapter 19 of the
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Liquefied Gases in
Bulk (IGC Code).
Cite: III/4 Evaluation, Testing and Approval of Life-Saving Appliances and

Arrangements
Life-saving appliances must be approved to the appropriate CFR, SOLAS or IMO standard.
USCG approved products and systems are accepted regardless of country of manufacture. The
USCG recognizes that with the Life-saving Appliances Code (LSA Code) there exists an
acceptable IMO standard for approval.
Equipment carrying a CG approval number issued under the US-EC or US-EFTA Mutual
Recognition Agreements, discussed above the “General” section, are acceptable.
A copy of the USCG acceptance letter must be provided with each piece of equipment supplied
to a U.S. flag ship under these agreements.
In addition, life-saving equipment accepted under the reciprocal acceptance agreement with
Norway may also be used on U.S. flag vessel.
The following approval series indicate approval to the SOLAS requirements:
160.017 Embarkation-Debarkation Ladders (only if marked “SOLAS 74/83”)*

160.040 Line-throwing appliances
160.115 Winches (if winches for rescue boat)**
II - 10
160.117 Embarkation-Debarkation Ladders*

160.118 Rigid liferafts***
160.121 Hand red flares
160.122 Floating orange smoke signals
160.132 Davits (if davits for rescue boat)**
160.135 Lifeboats**
160.136 Rocket parachute flares
160.150 Ring life buoys*
160.151 Inflatable liferafts***
160.155 Lifejackets
160.156 Rescue boats***
160.157 Self-activating smoke signals
160.162 Hydrostatic release units*
160.163 Liferaft launching appliance
160.170 Liferaft automatic disengaging apparatus
160.171 Immersion suits
160.174 Thermal protective aids
160.175 Marine Evaluation Systems ***
160.176 Inflatable Lifejackets (SOLAS)
161.110 Floating electric water lights
161.112 Lifejacket lights
163.003 Pilot Ladders to comply with SOLAS V/17, IMO Res. A.889(21
Accommodation ladders which are used in conjunction with a pilot ladder for
pilot transfer need not be approved under USCG approval series 163.003.
Such accommodation ladders may be approved by ABS under the Alternate
Compliance Program to the requirements of SOLAS Ch.II-2/Reg. 3-9.
Those items without an asterisk (*) are to be forwarded directly to the USCG for their
approval.
* indicates those items for which ABS possesses USCG acceptance to conduct approval
(design review and testing) work on behalf of the USCG.
** indicates items which come under the U.S. District Court Order of 31 May 1983, which
declares invalid any inspection or test not conducted by or in the presence of a USCG
Marine Inspector. The Order does not address pre-approved reviews. This Order remains
in effect until such time as the USCG publishes a final regulation in the Federal Register
removing the requirement for a USCG Marine Inspector to witness the inspections or test.
*** indicates that the USCG reserves the right to attend prototype testing of this equipment as
a condition of approval. This option will normally be exercised in the case of a
manufacturer seeking approval of this equipment for the first time, or for a substantially
new or innovative design.
Where a particular life-saving appliance or arrangement is required, the Commandant, USCG,

may accept any other appliance or arrangement that is at least as effective as that specified. If
necessary, the Commandant, USCG, may require engineering evaluations and tests to
demonstrate the equivalence of the substitute appliance or arrangement.
II - 11
Life-saving appliances carried on board the ship in addition to equipment of the type required
under this part must be approved equipment or be acceptable to the cognizant USCG Officer in
Charge of Marine Inspection (OCMI) for use on the ship.
Cite: III/6 Communications
Each item of radio communications equipment must be type accepted by the Federal
Communications Commission.
Cite: III/7 Personal Life-Saving Appliances
Each child-size lifejacket and immersion suit must be appropriately marked and stowed
separately from adult or extended-size devices.
Each lifejacket and immersion suit must be marked with the vessel’s name.
Inflatable lifejackets, if carried, must all be of the same or similar design.
Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit container must be marked in block capital
letters and numbers with the quantity, identity, and size of the equipment stowed inside the
container. The equipment may be identified in words or with the appropriate symbol from IMO
Resolution A.760(18).
Cite: III/8 Muster List and Emergency Instructions
Instructions for passengers must include illustrated instructions on the method of donning
lifejackets.
Cite: III/11 Survival Craft Muster and Embarkation Arrangements
If a davit-launched survival craft is not intended to be moved to the stowed position with persons
on board, the craft must be provided with a means for bringing it against the side of the vessel
and holding it alongside the vessel to allow persons to safely disembark after a drill.
Cite: III/13 Stowage of Survival Craft
Each life-raft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the water from the deck on which it is
stowed. The liferaft stowage arrangement meets this requirement if it
(i) is outboard of the rail or bulwark,
(ii) is on stanchions or on a platform adjacent to the rail or bulwark, or
(iii) has a gate or other suitable opening large enough to allow the liferaft to be pushed
directly overboard and, if the liferaft is intended to be available for use on either side
of the vessel, such gate or opening is provided on each side of the vessel.
II - 12
Cite: III/18 Line-Throwing Appliances
In addition to the equipment approved and carried as part of the appliance, each line throwing
appliance must also have an auxiliary line that:
(1) if other than manila, has a breaking strength of at least 40 kN (9,000 lb);
(2) if other than manila, is of a dark color or of a type certified to be resistant to deterioration
from ultraviolet light; and
(3) is at least 450 m (1,500 ft) long.
The line throwing appliance and its equipment must be readily accessible for use, stowed in its
container carried within the pilothouse or on the navigating bridge or stowed in a portable
magazine chest.
Cite: III/33 Survival Craft Embarkation and Launching Arrangements
On a tank vessel certificated to carry cargoes that have a flashpoint less than 60°C (140°F) as
determined under ASTM D93-94, each lifeboat or launching appliance of aluminum construction
must be protected by a water spray system.

LSA Code
VI 6.1.2
Each unguarded fall must not pass near any operating position of the winch, such as hand cranks,
pay out wheels, and brake levers.

LSA Code
VI 6.1.2.9
The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be not more than 1.3 m per second (256
ft per minute).
Each fall, where exposed to damage or fouling, must have guards or equivalent protection. Each
fall that leads along a deck must be covered with a guard which is not more than 300 mm (12
inches) above the deck.
Each winch drum must be arranged so the fall wire winds onto the drum in a level wrap.
D. Radiocommunications
Cite: IV/1.4 Radiocommunications – Application
The required EPIRB must be marked with the vessel’s name.
II - 13
E. Safety of Navigation
Cite: V/22 Navigation Bridge Visibility
In addition to the SOLAS implementation schedule, this regulation applies to all cargo and
passenger vessels of 100 m (328 ft) or more in length and contracted for on or after September 7,
1990.
II - 14
U. S. Supplement Section III
III. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS NOT CONTAINED IN

ABS RULES, MARPOL OR SOLAS
A. Diving Support Systems III-1
B. Accommodations for Officers and Crew

1. Application III-1
2. Intent III-1
3. Location of Crew Spaces III-2
4. Construction III-2
5. Sleeping Accommodations III-3
6. Wash Spaces; Toilet Spaces, and Shower Spaces III-4
7. Messrooms III-5
8. Hospital Space III-5
9. Other Spaces III-6
10. Lighting III-6
11. Heating III-6
12. Insect Screens III-7
13. For all vessels other than tankships contracted for prior to
November 19, 1952 III-7
14. Crew accommodations on tankships of less than 100 gross tons and
manned tank barges III-9
15. Crew accommodations on tankships constructed before June 15, 1987 III-9
C. Passenger Spaces
1. Ventilation III-9
D. Navigation Safety Requirements That Apply to All Vessels
Cite: 33 CFR 164.35(g) Navigational Equipment

2. Maneuvering Information III-10
Cite: 33 CFR Charts and Publications

164.33(2)(i) & 1. Application III-11
33 CFR 2. Requirements III-11
164.33(3)(ii)
Cite: 33 CFR 164.41 Electronic Position Fixing Devices

2. Devices III-11
III - i
E. Requirements in Addition to MARPOL Annexes
ANNEX I
Cite: 33 CFR 151.27 Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.205 Discharge Removal Equipment for Vessels 400 Feet
or Greater in Length III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.210 Discharge Removal Equipment for Vessels Less Than
400 Feet in Length III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.225 Internal Cargo Transfer Capability III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.230 Emergency Towing Capability for Oil Barges III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.310 Containment of Oil and Hazardous Material Cargo

Discharge III-12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.320 Fuel Oil and Bulk Lubricating Oil Discharge Containment III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.380 Oily-water Separating Equipment, Bilge Alarm and

Bilge Monitor Approval Standards III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.450 Placard III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.780 Emergency Shutdown III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.790 Deck Lighting III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.800 Transfer Hoses III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 155.1010 Response Plans – Purposes III-13
Cite: 33 CFR 157.03(n) Definition – Oil III-14
Cite: 33 CFR 157.10b Segregated Ballast Tanks, Dedicated Clean Ballast Tanks,
and Special Ballast Arrangements for Tank Vessels III-14
Cite: 33 CFR 157.10d Double Hulls on Tank Vessels III-14
Cite: 33 CFR 157.12 Cargo Monitor and Control System III-14
Cite: 33 CFR 157.15 Slop Tanks in Tank Vessels III-14
Cite: 33 CFR 157.21 Subdivision and Stability III-14
III - ii
ANNEX II
Cite: 33 CFR 151.27 Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan for

Noxious Liquid Substances (NLS) III-15
ANNEX III III-15
ANNEX IV (NOT ADOPTED) COMPARISON OF USCG RULES TO MARPOL
Cite: 33 CFR 159 Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs) III-15
ANNEX V
Cite: 33 CFR 151.51 Garbage Pollution – Applicability III-15
Cite: 33 CFR 151.55 Garbage Pollution – Record Keeping Requirements III-16
Cite: 33 CFR 151.57 Garbage Pollution – Waste Management Plans III-16
Cite: 33 CFR 151.59 Garbage Pollution – Placards III-16
ANNEX VI
Cite: 46 CFR 63.25-9 Incinerators III-16
III - iii
III. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS NOT CONTAINED IN

ABS RULES, MARPOL OR SOLAS
A. Diving Support Systems
Diving support systems must meet the following requirements:
(a) Piping for diving installations which is permanently installed on the vessel must meet
the requirements of subpart B (Commercial Diving Operations) of 46 CFR part 197.
(b) Piping internal to a pressure vessel for human occupancy (PVHO) must meet the
requirements of subpart B of 46 CFR part 197.
B. Accommodations for Officers and Crew
1. Application
(a) The provisions of this section, with the exception of paragraph 13, shall apply to all
vessels other than tankships of 100 gross tons and over contracted for on or after
November 19, 1952. Vessels other than tankships of 100 gross tons and over
contracted for prior to November l9, 1952, shall meet the requirements of paragraph
13.
(b) Vessels other than tankships of less than 100 gross tons shall meet the applicable
requirements of this section insofar as is reasonable and practicable.
(c) The provisions of this section, with the exception of paragraphs 14 and 15, apply to
all tankships of 100 gross tons and over constructed on or after June 15, 1987.
(d) Tankships of less than 100 gross tons and manned tank barges must meet the
requirements of paragraph 14.
(e) Tankships of 100 gross tons and over constructed prior to June 15, 1987, must meet
the requirements of paragraph 15.
2. Intent
(a) It is the intent of this section that the accommodations provided for officers and crew
on all vessels shall be securely constructed, properly lighted, heated, drained,
ventilated, equipped, located, arranged, and, where practicable, shall be insulated
from undue noise and effluvia.
(b) The crew referred to herein includes all persons, except the licensed officers,
regularly employed on board any vessel. Where the requirements for the
accommodation of licensed officers are not otherwise specified, they shall be of at
least equivalent to that indicated herein for the crew.
III - 1
(c) For the purpose of this subpart, the term “crew spaces” shall include sleeping rooms,
messrooms, recreational rooms, toilet and shower spaces, etc., which are intended for
the exclusive use of the crew.
3. Location of Crew Spaces
(a) Crew spaces shall be located, where practicable, so that the maximum amount of
fresh air and light are obtainable, having due regard to the service of the vessel and
the requirements of other space users.
(b) Crew quarters shall not be located farther forward in a vessel than a vertical plane
located at 5% of the vessel’s length abaft the forward side of the stem at the designed
summer load waterline. However, for vessels in other than ocean or coastwise
service, this distance need not exceed 28 ft (8.5m). For the purpose of this paragraph,
the length shall be as defined in CFR 42.13-15 of subchapter E (Load Lines). No
section of the deck of the crew spaces shall be below the deepest load line, except that
in special cases, on vessels other than tankships, such an arrangement may be
approved provided that in no case shall the deck head of the crew space be below the
deepest load line.
(c) Hawse pipes or chain pipes shall not pass through crew spaces.
(d) There shall be no direct communication, except through solid, close fitted doors or
hatches between crew spaces and chain lockers, cargo, stowage or machinery spaces.
(e) There shall be no access, vents, or sounding tubes from fuel or cargo oil tanks
opening into crew spaces, except that sounding tubes and access openings may be
located in corridors.
(f) Where practicable, crew spaces shall be located entirely separate and independent of
spaces allotted to passengers or licensed officers.
4. Construction
(a) All crew spaces are to be constructed in a manner suitable to the purpose for which
they are intended. The bulkheads separating the crew space from cargo and
machinery spaces, lamp and paint rooms, storerooms, drying rooms, washrooms, and
toilet spaces shall be made odorproof.
(b) Toilet spaces, except when provided as private or semiprivate facilities, shall be so
built, fitted, and situated, that no odor from them will readily enter other crew spaces.
(c) Where the shell or unsheathed weather decks form boundaries of crew spaces,
suitable protective coverings shall be applied to prevent formation or accumulation of
moisture.
III - 2
(d) Where crew spaces adjoin or are immediately above spaces such as galleys machinery
spaces or casings, donkey boilerrooms, etc., they shall be suitably protected from the
heat and noise.
(e) The interior sides and deckheads of crew spaces shall be covered with enamel, paint,
or other material light in color.
(f) Crew spaces shall be properly drained where considered necessary.
(g) All washrooms and toilet rooms shall be properly drained and so constructed and
arranged that they can be kept in a clean, workable, and sanitary condition. The
scuppers shall be located in the lowest part of the space, due consideration being
given to the average trim of the vessel.
5. Sleeping Accommodations
(a) Arrangements
(1) Separate sleeping accommodations are to be provided for the deck, engine, and
steward groups of the crew.
(2) Each watch of seamen, firemen or similar ratings on duty in watches is to be

provided with separate sleeping room or rooms, unless the total space for
accommodations makes this impracticable.
(3) Where practicable, each licensed officer shall be provided with a separate
stateroom.
(b) Size
(1) Sleeping accommodations for the crew shall be divided into rooms, no one of
which shall berth more than four persons. Except on passenger ships requiring a
large number of personnel in the steward’s department, rooms may be arranged
to accommodate not more than 10 such persons.
(2) Each room shall be of such size that there are at least (2.79 m3 ) 30 ft2 of deck
area and a volume of at least (6 m3 ) 210 ft3 for each person accommodated.
The clear headroom shall be not less than (1.9 m) 6 ft 3 in. In measuring
sleeping quarters allocated to crews of vessels, any equipment contained therein
for the use of the occupants is not to be deducted from the total volume or from
the deck area.
(c) Equipment
(1) Each person shall have a separate berth and not more than one berth shall be
placed above another. The berths shall have a framework of metal or other hard,
smooth material not likely to corrode or harbor vermin, and shall be so arranged
that they provide ample room for easy occupancy. The overall size of a berth
III - 3
shall not be less than (762 mm) 30 in wide by (1930 mm) 76 in long, except by
special permission of the Commandant, USCG. Where berths adjoin, they shall
be divided by a partition not less than 457 mm (18 in) in height. Where two tiers
of berths are fitted, the bottom of the lower must not be less than 305 mm (12
in) above the deck, and the bottom of the upper must not be less than 0.76 m (2
ft 6 in) both from the bottom of the lower and from the deck overhead. The
berths shall not be obstructed by pipes, ventilating ducts, or other installations.
(2) A locker of metal or other hard, smooth material shall be provided for each
person accommodated in a room. Each locker shall be not less than 1935 cm2
(300 in2) in cross section area and 1524 mm (60 in) high. It shall be so placed
as to be readily accessible. The interior of the locker shall be so arranged as to
facilitate the proper stowage of clothes.
6. Wash Spaces; Toilet Spaces; and Shower Spaces
(a) For the purposes of this section
(1) Private facility means a toilet, washing, or shower space that is accessible only
from one single or double occupancy sleeping space;
(2) Semiprivate facility means a toilet, washing, or shower space that is accessible
from one or two one-to-four person occupancy sleeping spaces; and
(3) Public facility means a toilet, washing, or shower space that is not private or
semiprivate.
(b) Each private facility must have one toilet, one shower, and one washbasin, all of
which may be in a single space.
(c) Each semiprivate facility must have at least one toilet and one shower, which may be
in a single space.
(d) Each room adjoining a semiprivate facility must have a washbasin if a washbasin is
not installed in the semiprivate facility.
(e) Each tankship must have enough public facilities to provide at least one toilet, one
shower, and one washbasin for each eight persons without private facilities.
(f) Urinals may be installed in toilet rooms, but no toilet required in this section may be
replaced by a urinal.
(g) Each public toilet space and washing space must be convenient to the sleeping space
that it serves.
(h) No public facility may open into any sleeping space.
III - 4
(i) Each washbasin, shower, and bathtub must have hot and cold running water.
(j) Adjacent toilets must be separated by a partition that is open at the top and bottom for
ventilation and cleaning.
(k) Public toilet facilities and shower facilities must be separated.
(1) Each public facility that is a toilet space must have at least one washbasin unless the
only access to the toilet space is through a washing space.
(m) Each washing space and toilet space must be so constructed and arranged that it can
be kept in a clean and sanitary condition and the plumbing and mechanical appliances
kept in good working order.
(n) Washbasins may be located in sleeping spaces.
7. Messrooms
(a) Messrooms shall be located as near to the galley or suitably equipped serving pantry
as is practicable, except where messroom is equipped with a steam table. The
messrooms shall be of such size as to seat the number of persons normally scheduled
to be eating at one time.
(b) Messrooms shall be properly equipped with tables, seats, and other necessary
equipment and shall be so arranged as to permit access to each seat.
8. Hospital Space
(a) Except as specifically modified by paragraph (f) of this section, each vessel, which in
the ordinary course of its trade makes voyages of more than 3 days duration between
ports and which carries a crew of 12 or more, shall be provided with a hospital space.
This space shall be situated with due regard to the comfort of the sick so that they
may receive proper attention in all weathers.
(b) The hospital shall be suitably separated from other spaces and shall be used for the
care of the sick and for no other purpose.
(c) The entrance shall be of such width and in such a position as to admit a stretcher case
readily. Berths shall be of metal and may be in double tier, provided the upper berth is
hinged and arranged to be secured clear of the lower berth when not in use. At least
one berth shall be so arranged that it can be made accessible from both sides when
necessary.
(d) The hospital shall be fitted with berths in the ratio of one berth to every twelve
members of the crew or portion thereof who are not berthed in single occupancy
rooms, but the number of berths need not exceed six.
III - 5
(e) The hospital shall have a toilet, washbasin, and bath tub or shower conveniently
situated. Other necessary suitable equipment of such character as clothes locker,
table, seat, etc., shall be provided.
(f) On vessels in which the crew is berthed in single occupancy rooms a hospital space
will not be required: provided that one room shall be designated and fitted for use as a
treatment and/or isolation room. Such room shall meet the following standards:
(1) The room must be available for immediate medical use.
(2) The room must be accessible to stretcher cases.
(3) The room must have a single berth or examination table so arranged that it can
be made accessible from both sides when necessary.
(4) A washbasin with hot and cold running water must be installed either in or
immediately adjacent to the space and other required sanitary facilities must be
conveniently located.
9. Other Spaces
(a) Sufficient facilities, depending upon the number of the crew, shall be provided where
the crew may wash their own clothes. There shall be at least one tub or sink fitted
with the necessary plumbing, including hot and cold running water.
(b) Clothes drying facilities or space shall be provided for the needs of the crew.
(c) Recreation accommodations shall be provided. Where messrooms are used for this
purpose, they shall be suitably planned.
(d) A space or spaces of adequate size shall be available on an open deck to which the
crew has access when off duty.
10. Lighting
(a) All crew spaces shall be adequately lighted.
(b) Berth lights shall be provided for each member of the crew.
11. Heating
(a) All crew spaces shall be adequately heated in a manner suitable to the purpose of the
space.
(b) The heating system will be considered satisfactory if it is capable of maintaining a

minimum temperature of 70°F (21°C). under normal operating conditions without
undue curtailment of the ventilation.
III - 6
(c) Radiators and other heating apparatus shall be so placed, and where necessary
shielded, as to avoid risk of fire, danger or discomfort to the occupants. Pipes leading
to radiators or heating apparatus shall be insulated where those pipes create a hazard
to persons occupying the space.
12. Insect Screens
(a) Except in such areas as are considered to be insect free, provisions shall be made to
protect the crew quarters against the admission of insects. This may be accomplished
by the fitting of suitable screens to ventilating skylights, air ports, ventilators, and
doors to unscreened spaces and the open deck or by other methods. Insect screens are
not required in air conditioned crew quarters for windows, air ports, and doors that
are normally kept closed.
13. For all vessels other than tankships contracted for prior to November 19, 1952.
(a) Vessels of less than 100 gross tons, contracted for prior to November 19, 1952, shall
meet the general intent of paragraph and in addition shall meet the following
requirements:
(1) Existing structure, arrangements, materials, and facilities, previously accepted

or approved will be considered satisfactory so long as they are maintained in a
suitable condition to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Minor repairs and
alterations may be made to the same standard as the original construction.
(b) Vessels of 100 gross tons and over, contracted for prior to March 4, 1915, shall meet
the requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Existing structure, arrangements, materials, and facilities, previously approved

will be considered satisfactory so long as they are maintained in good condition
to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Minor repairs and alterations may be made to
the same standard as the original construction: Provided, that in no case will a
greater departure from the standards of paragraphs 2 through 12 be permitted
than presently exists.
(c) Vessels of 100 gross tons and over, contracted for on or after March 4, 1915, but prior
to January 1, 1941, shall meet the requirements of this paragraph.

will be considered satisfactory so long as they are maintained in a suitable
condition to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Minor repairs and alterations may
be made to the same standard as the original construction.
(2) Where reasonable and practicable, a minimum of one toilet, shower, and
washbasin shall be provided for each 10 members of the crew or fraction
thereof.
III - 7
(3) Crew spaces shall have a volume of at least 3.4 m³ (120 ft)³ and a deck area of
at least 1.1 m³ (16 ft)³ for each person accommodated.
(4) Each crewmember shall have a separate berth, and berths may not be placed
more than two high.
(5) Each vessel, which in the ordinary course of its trade makes a voyage of more
than three days’ duration between ports and which carries a crew of 12 or more
persons, shall be provided with a suitable hospital space for the exclusive use of
the sick or injured. Berths shall be provided in the ratio of one berth for each
twelve members of the crew or fraction thereof, but the number of berths need
not exceed six.
(6) The crew spaces shall be securely constructed, properly lighted, heated, drained,
ventilated, equipped, located, and arranged, and where practicable, shall be
insulated from undue noise and effluvia.
(d) Vessels of 100 gross tons and over, contracted for on or after January 1, 1941, but
prior to November 19, 1952, shall meet the requirements of this paragraph.

will be considered satisfactory so long as they are maintained in a suitable
condition to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Minor repairs and alterations may
be made to the same standard as the original construction.
(2) Washrooms and Toilet Rooms:
(i) There shall be a minimum of one toilet, shower, and washbasin for each 8
members of the crew or fraction thereof who are not accommodated in
rooms having attached private or semiprivate facilities.
(ii) Separate facilities shall be provided for the engine room, deck, or stewards
department when the number of crew in that department, exclusive of
officers, exceeds 8.
(iii) Toilet rooms shall be separate from the wash rooms. At least one
washbasin shall be installed in each toilet room.
(iv) Toilets shall be provided with seats of the open front type. Urinals may be
fitted in toilet rooms, if desired, but no reduction will be made in the
required number of toilets.
(v) Washbasins, showers, and bath tubs if substituted for showers, shall be
equipped with proper plumbing including hot and cold running water.
(3) Crew spaces shall have a volume of at least 3.4 m³ (120 ft)³ and a deck area of
at least 1.1 m³ (16 ft)³ for each person accommodated.
III - 8
(4) Each crewmember shall have a separate berth, and berths may not be placed
more than two high.
(5) Each vessel, which in the ordinary course of its trade makes a voyage of more
than three days duration between ports and which carries a crew of 12 or more
persons, shall be provided with a suitable hospital space for the exclusive use of
the sick or injured. Berths shall be provided in the ratio of one berth for each 12
members of the crew or fraction thereof, but the number of berths need not
exceed six.
(6) The crew spaces shall be securely constructed, properly lighted, heated, drained,
ventilated, equipped, located, and arranged, and where practicable, shall be
insulated from undue noise and effluvia.
14. Crew accommodations on tankships of less than 100 gross tons and manned tank barges
(a) The crew accommodations on all tankships of less than 100 gross tons and all manned
tank barges must have sufficient size and equipment, and be adequately constructed
to provide for the protection of the crew in a manner practicable for the size,
facilities, and service of the tank vessel.
(b) The crew accommodations must be consistent with the principles underlying the
requirements for crew accommodations on tankships of 100 gross tons or more.
15. Crew accommodations on tankships constructed before June 15, 1987
All tankships of 100 gross tons and over constructed before June 15, 1987 may retain
previously accepted or approved installations and arrangements so long as they are
maintained in good condition to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
C. Passenger Spaces
1. Ventilation
Passenger spaces are to be provided with adequate ventilation.
D. Navigation Safety Requirements that Apply to All Vessels
This section applies to all self propelled vessels over 1600 gross tons when operating in the
navigable waters of the United States, except the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Cite: 33 CFR 164.35(g) Navigational Equipment
1. Application
(a) The provisions of this section apply to all self propelled vessels over 1600 gross tons
when operating in the navigable waters of the United States, except the St. Lawrence
Seaway.
III - 9
2. Maneuvering Information
(a) Maneuvering characteristics must be posted prominently on a fact sheet in the wheel
house. The requirements for posting maneuvering information are found in 33 CFR
164.35. The maneuvering characteristics are to be representative of both normal load,
normal ballast conditions, calm weather (wind 10 knots or less), no current, deep
water (at least twice the vessel’s draft), and clean hull. At the bottom of the fact sheet
the following statement shall be provided:
“WARNING”
The response of the (name of vessel) may be different from that listed above if any of
the following conditions, upon which the maneuvering information is based, are
varied:
(1) Calm weather – wind 10 knots or less, calm sea;

(2) No current;
(3) Water depth twice the vessel’s draft or greater;
(4) Clean hull; and
(5) Intermediate drafts or unusual trim.
(b) The posted characteristics shall consist of the following maneuvers:
(1) Turning Circle Diagram to both port and starboard.
- Time, distance, advance, transfer to alter course 90º with maximum power
settings for either full or half speeds, or full and slow speeds.
- Vessels which have essentially the same turning characteristics to both port,
and starboard may substitute a turning circle in one direction only, with a
note stating the other direction to be essentially the same.
- Time and Distance to Stop the vessel from either full and half speeds while
maintaining initial heading, and minimum rudder application.
- Table of Shaft RPM for a representative range of speeds should be provided

for a vessel with a fixed pitch propeller.
- Table of Control Settings for a representative range of speeds for a vessel

with a controllable pitch propeller.
- Table of Effective Speeds for auxiliary maneuvering devices such as bow

thrusters. This table should show the range of speeds for which the unit can
be used effectively.
(c) Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 7-89 calls attention to IMO
Resolution A.601(15) “Provision and Display of Maneuvering Information Onboard
Ships”, adopted 19 November 1987, and MSC/Circ. 389, “Interim Guidelines for
Estimating Maneuvering Performance in Ship Design,” adopted 10 January 1985.
III - 10
These provide guidance to the owner and operator concerning maneuvering

performance estimation and a standardized format for presentation of ship
maneuvering information to operating personnel, including pilots.
Cite: 33 CFR 164.33(2)(i) & Charts and Publications

33 CFR 164.33(3)(ii)
1. Application
when operating in the navigable waters of the United States, except the St. Lawrence
Seaway.
2. Requirements
(a) In addition to the requirements of SOLAS, a vessel must have a current copy of the
“U.S. Coast Pilot”, and “Tidal Current Tables”, published by the National
Oceanographic Service. Further detail is provided in 33 CFR 164.33.
Cite: 33 CFR 164.41 Electronic Position Fixing Devices
See Federal Register Vol. 59, No. 56, dated March 23, 1994, page 13757 for additional guidance.
1. Application
and calling at a port in the United States, including Alaska south of Cape Prince of
Wales. Each vessel operated, owned, or bareboat chartered by the United States,
State, or Political Subdivision, by a foreign nation, and not engaged in commerce is
exempt from this requirement. Requirements for electronic position fixing devices are
found in 33 CFR 164.41.
2. Devices
(a) A Type I or Type II Loran C Receiver meeting Part 2 (Minimum Performance

Standards of the Radio Technical Commission for Marine Services (RTCM) Paper
12-78/DOD100. Each receiver installed on or after June 1, 1982 must have a label
showing the name and address of the manufacturer, including the following
statement: “This receiver was designed and manufactured to meet Part 2 (Minimum
Performance Standards) of the RTCM MPS for Loran-C Receiving Equipment.”
(b) A Satellite Navigation Receiver with automatic acquisition of satellite signals, and
position updates derived from satellite information.
(c) A system considered to meet the intent for availability, accuracy, and coverage for
the U.S. Confluence Zone (CCZ) contained in U.S. “Federal Radio Navigation Plan”
(Report No. DOD-No 4650.4-D or No. DOT-TSC-RSPA-80-16I).
III - 11
E. Requirements in Addition to MARPOL Annexes
In order to facilitate reference, the applicable CFR cite is given for each entry.
ANNEX I
Cite: 33 CFR 151.27 Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan
For the issue of a Certificate of Inspection, the Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (Reg. 37)
outlined in IMO Res. MEPC.86(44) can only be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (CG-533)
Cite: 33 CFR 155.205 Discharge Removal Equipment for Vessels 400 Feet
(122 m) or Greater in Length
Oil carrying tank vessels with a length that is at least 122 m (400 ft) must carry discharge
removal equipment for on-deck spills up to 12 bbl. The equipment must include: sorbents, non-
sparking hand scoops, containers for the recovered spillage, emulsifiers for deck cleaning,
protective clothing, one non-sparking portable pump with hoses, and scupper plugs.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.210 Discharge Removal Equipment for Vessels Less than 400 Feet
(122 m) in Length
Oil carrying tank vessels with a length that is less than 122 m (400 ft) must carry discharge
removal equipment for on-deck spills up to 7 bbl. The equipment must include: sorbents, non-
sparking hand scoops, containers for the recovered spillage, emulsifiers for deck cleaning,
protective clothing, one non-sparking portable pump with hoses, and scupper plugs.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.225 Internal Cargo Transfer Capability
Unless the vessel’s cargo piping system can transfer cargo among all tanks within the cargo
block, the vessel must be equipped with hoses and reducers which can enable the transfer of
cargo from any tank to any other tank.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.230 Emergency Towing Capability for Oil Barges
Offshore barges must carry an emergency tow wire or a tow line that is rigged and ready for use,
which has the same characteristics as the primary tow wire or tow line.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.310 Containment of Oil and Hazardous Material Cargo Discharge
Under hose connections there must be a fixed container or enclosed deck area with a mechanical
means of closing the drain for that containment which has a capacity:
1/2 bbl for lines no more than 51 mm (2 in)
1 bbl for lines more than 51 mm (2 in) up to 102 mm (4 in)
2 bbl for lines no less than 102 mm (4 in) up to 152 mm (6 in)
3 bbl for lines no less than 152 mm (6 in) up to 304 mm (12 in)
4 bbl for lines 304 mm (12 in) or more
III - 12
Cite: 33 CFR 155.320 Fuel Oil and Bulk Lubricating Oil Discharge Containment
Under fill connections and vents there must be a fixed container or enclosed deck area with a
mechanical means of closing the drain for that containment which has a capacity:
1/2 bbl for vessels 300 gross ton or more but less than 1600 gross tons .
1 bbl for vessels 1600 gross ton or more
Cite: 33 CFR 155.380 Oily-water Separating Equipment, Bilge Alarm and Bilge
Monitor Approval Standards
Oily-water separating equipment and oil content meters for bilge alarms are to be USCG
approved equipment.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.450 Placard
Each machinery space must have a sign indicating that the discharge of oil is prohibited.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.780 Emergency Shutdown
Tank vessel must have an emergency means of stopping transfers within a vessel.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.790 Deck Lighting
Tank vessels must have a means of illuminating the deck in transfer operation work areas – 1.0
foot candle measured 0.91 m (3ft) above the deck – and at transfer connections – 5.0 foot candle
measured 0.91 m (3ft) above the deck.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.800 Transfer Hoses
Transfer hoses must have burst pressure of at least 600 psi and four times the MAWP, which
must be at least 10.3 bar (150 psi). Hose flanges must meet ANSI B16.5 or B16.24. The hoses
must be marked with the MAWP, type of service, date of manufacture and the date of the last
pressure test. The date of manufacture and the date of the last pressure test may be recorded in
lieu of being marked on the hoses.
Cite: 33 CFR 155.1010 Response Plans – Purposes
Applies to tank vessels without regard to size. (Reg. 37 applies to tank vessels greater than 150
gross ton and all vessels greater than 400 gross ton applies to discharges of oil. (Reg. 37 applies
to all discharges of oil.) Requires formal agreements for spill notification and cleanup. (Reg.37
requires only shipboard procedures and a shoreside contact.) Requires a geographic specific
appendix for U.S. ports. (Reg. 37 requires a worldwide list.)
III - 13
Cite: 33 CFR 157.03(n) Definition – Oil
Oil is not limited to petroleum and includes animal fats and other “oils.” (MARPOL regulates
animal fats and vegetable oils under Annex II.)
Cite: 33 CFR 157.10b Segregated Ballast Tanks, Dedicated Clean Ballast Tanks, and
Special Ballast Arrangements for Tank Vessels Transporting
Outer Continental Shelf Oil
Tank vessels servicing the OCS are permitted to carry ballast water in cargo tanks. (MARPOL
makes no special allowances for these sorts of vessels.)
Cite: 33 CFR 157.10d Double Hulls on Tank Vessels
U.S. dates for required double hull construction are three (3) years earlier than Reg. 19.
There is no minimum tonnage limit for applicability to vessels. (Reg. 19 applies for vessels
greater than 5000 dwt.)
Cite: 33 CFR 157.12 Cargo Monitor and Control System
The oil discharge monitoring and control system is to be USCG approved equipment. The
ODMC system manual is also required to be approved.
Cite: 33 CFR 157.15 Slop Tanks in Tank Vessels
The oily/water detectors installed on slop tanks are to be USCG approved equipment.
Cite: 33 CFR 157.21 Subdivision and Stability
For US Flag vessels, MARPOL damage stability requirements are applicable to the following
vessels:
(a) New vessels delivered after 31 December 1977

(b) New vessels contracted after 31 December 1974, and
(c) New vessels whose keels were laid (or similar stage of construction) after 30 June
1975
“New vessel” (defined in 157.03) applies to vessels as under contract, constructed, or completed
between 1975/1976/1979. (Reg. 1.28.4) defines “new” as four (4) years later.)
Interpretation: MARPOL Reg. 18.5

Segregated ballast tanks, dedicated clean ballast tanks and crude oil washing. Vessels less than
150 m in (412 ft) length: The U.S. has not adopted the requirements in Appendix 1 to Annex I
which addresses segregated ballast for vessels less than 150 m (412 ft) in length. Determination
under this regulation must be made by the Commandant, USCG.
III - 14
Interpretation: MARPOL Reg. 19.4

Prevention of oil pollution in the event of collision or stranding. Mid-deck tankers: The U.S. has
not ratified that the mid-deck design is equivalent to a double hull.
Interpretation: MARPOL Reg. 20

Prevention of oil pollution in the event of collision or stranding. Determinations by the
Administration: The Commandant, USCG, makes determinations on behalf of the U.S.
Interpretation: MARPOL Reg. 28.1.3

Subdivision and Stability. Stability for vessels under 100 m (328 ft): The Commandant, USCG,
makes determinations concerning the relaxation requirements for vessels less than 100 m if the
standards for a vessel 150 m (412 ft) or longer would impair the operational qualities of the ship.
ANNEX II
Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular No. 03-06 provides “Guidance on implementation of
revisions to MARPOL Annex II and the IBC Code,” which is considered to be U.S. Coast Guard
policy.
Cite: 33 CFR 151.27 Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan for NLS
For the issue of a Certificate of Inspection, the Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plans for
Noxious Liquid Substances (NLS) (Reg. 16) outlined in IMO Res. MEPC.85(44) can only be
approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (CG-533).
ANNEX III (no differences)
ANNEX IV (NOT ADOPTED) COMPARISON OF USCG RULES TO MARPOL
Cite: 33 CFR 159.53 Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs)
All vessels must be installed with either an operable MSD which controls the discharged fecal
coliform bacteria count to 200 per 100 ml (3.38 fl.oz) and the suspended solids to 150 mg/l,
which is certified by the Commandant, USCG or with an operable MSD which retains the
sewage on board.
ANNEX V
Cite: 33 CFR 151.51 Garbage Pollution – Applicability
The U.S. applies Annex V to U.S. public vessels after January 1, 1994. MARPOL does not
generally apply to public vessels.
Cite: 33 CFR 151.55 Garbage Pollution – Record Keeping Requirements
U.S. ships over 12.2 m (40 ft) must keep records of garbage disposal.
III - 15
Cite: 33 CFR 151.57 Garbage Pollution – Waste Management Plans
U.S. ships over 12.2 m (40 ft) with galleys must have a waste management plan.
Cite: 33 CFR 151.59 Garbage Pollution – Placards
U.S. ships over 7.9 m (26 ft) must have placards describing prohibited waste discharges.
ANNEX VI
U.S. Coast Guard policy with respect to the issue of MARPOL Annex VI certificates required to
be carried aboard a vessel is contained in CG-543 Policy Letter 09-01.
Cite: 46 CFR 63.25-9 Incinerators
“Each incinerator installed on or after March 26, 1998 must meet the requirements of IMO
Resolution MEPC.76(40). A Coast Guard Certificate of Approval is required for each
incinerator. Incinerators in compliance with the following are considered to meet IMO
Resolution MEPC.76(40):
• ISO 13617; or
• Both ASTM F 1323 and Annexes A1-A3 of IMO Resolution MEPC.76(40)
III - 16
U. S. Supplement Section IV
IV. SURVEYS AFTER CONSTRUCTION
CHECKLIST ON ACP CLASSIFICATION SURVEYS SLC IV-1

CHECKLIST ON ACP STATUTORY SURVEYS SLE IV-2
CHECKLIST ON ACP ENVIRONMENTAL SURVEYS AND IV-4
MARPOL V
IV - i
CHECKLIST ON ACP CLASSIFICATION SURVEYS

ALTERNATE COMPLIANCE AND THE US SUPPLEMENT TO ABS RULES
TO BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH INITIAL, MAS, AND RENEWAL SLC
SURVEYS
1. On vessels not classed ACC, automation systems for propulsion and auxiliary boilers were tested
with USCG-approved procedures and found satisfactory.
2. The vessel’s Chief Engineer certified that all aspects of the vessel’s automated equipment has
been routinely and recently tested using the USCG-approved Periodic Automation Test Safety
Procedure (or approved by ABS on behalf of the USCG) and found satisfactory.
3. Was the ABS Class Annual Automation Survey (AAS) satisfactorily carried out, utilizing the
USCG or ABS approved Periodic Automation Test Safety Procedure?
4. It was confirmed that vessels with unattended Machinery Spaces had a planned maintenance
program, including maintenance and repair manuals and routine maintenance and checksheets?
5. The remote controls of valves in hull penetrations were randomly tested. Proper operation of
reach rods, control actuators and function indicators were randomly verified and found
satisfactory.
a. At the SLC renewal, a more detailed examination, to the satisfaction of the Surveyor, was
conducted.
6. Throttle control apparatus was demonstrated in manual and power modes at all stations and
related alarms and trips were verified operational.
7. A general examination was conducted of ladders, handrails, ramps, catwalks, accommodation

ladders, and protective guards on machinery to ensure these items were in good general repair
and suitable to protect personnel.
8. Draft marks, vessel name and hailing port were accurately affixed and displayed.
9. Machinery space tank tops and bilges were examined for accumulation of oil or other substances
that could pose a fire hazard.
a. Unsafe conditions were corrected.
10. Power operated trucks were marked with testing laboratory mark designation as specified in 46
CFR 35.70-74 and 46 CFR 78.80 or 46 CFR 97.70-7 as applicable and suitable for the hazard
classification in the space employed.
11. An operational test was conducted of the main and emergency bilge pump suctions.
12. The main and auxiliary piping systems were examined externally and found free of apparent
leakage.
a. The flexible non-metallic expansion pieces in the circulating system were identifiable by
manufacturer and verified by the Chief Engineer to have less than 10 years of service.
13. The vessel’s Master and Chief Engineer confirmed that the vessel had no 835s or other
conditions that needed to be brought to my attention.
14. The crew did not report, nor did I see any unsafe or unsanitary conditions of a concern.
15. If any of the above questions is answered “No,” the local OCMI must be informed before the
vessel sails. The source of the information is to be kept confidential.
IV - 1
CHECKLIST ON ACP STATUTORY SURVEYS

ALTERNATE COMPLIANCE AND THE US SUPPLEMENT TO ABS RULES
TO BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH INITIAL, MAS, AND RENEWAL SLE
SURVEYS
I. Fire Hose Testing
1. All fire hoses were hydrostatically tested to the maximum fire pump pressure to which they may
be exposed but not less than a minimum pressure of 6.9 bar (100 psi). Note: The Safety
Equipment Certificate may not be issued or endorsed if this is not done.
II. Liferaft Servicing

Note: Lack of certification is a No Sail item and the local OCMI must be contacted.
1. Note: New Regulations have been published regarding the servicing of liferafts. USCG field
offices perform initial service facility approval and periodic spot checks, but third parties may be
substituted. A new sticker system on the liferaft itself should be used in conjunction with the
certificate to determine proper servicing.
2. Liferaft certificates indicate current servicing by a USCG approved facility. Note: The information
must contain the port of servicing and the date of servicing.
III. Lifeboat Operational Tests
1. Proper operation of the propelling gear and/or motors was demonstrated. (IMO allows this testing
to be carried out while the boat is secured in the falls.)
a. The CG inspectors will have a crew proficiency test to conduct during their boarding. At that
time, the crew must operate each boat in the water, and the following tests will be carried
out:
b. The USCG will accept load tests done by ABS.
2. Each motor lifeboat and hand-propelled boat was operated at full speed both ahead and astern.
3. Each installed system, such as any powered bilge pump or water spray system, was successfully
operated.
4. Compass readings were compared with several known bearings.
5. Each air tank buoyancy unit was visually inspected and appears fit for service. Note: In case of
doubt, air tanks may be tested for air-tightness per Marine Safety Manual, Chapter 6, Section R.
6. Water tanks were inspected and confirmed watertight. Note: This should be demonstrated by
either an airtight test or filling with water and watching for leaks. Refer to Marine Safety Manual,
Chapter 6, Section R.
7. Batteries for engine starting and searchlights have a means for recharging, which are in
satisfactory condition.
8. The condition and quantity of survival equipment was checked as per the standard ABS
checklists.
IV. Advice for Lifeboat Weight Tests
1. The USCG has requirements in addition to SOLAS. The USCG requires weight testing of the
lifeboats during each inspection for certification and whenever the falls are turned end-for-end or
renewed.
IV - 2
2. The primary references for USCG lifeboat testing and inspection are:
a. Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations Part 199.45 and
b. Marine Safety Manual, Vol. 11, Section 6.R
3. The CFR contains the performance standard required, while the process used to verify
compliance with the standard is found in the Marine Safety Manual (MSM). A brief summary of
the lifeboat test and inspection requirements and the verification process follows. If difficulties are
encountered, please ask for advice from the local OCMI.
V. Tests and Inspections Required
1. At each Safety Equipment Inspection that will be used by the United States Coast Guard for their
renewal or mid-period Certification, a demonstration showing the proper condition and operation
of lifeboats and their launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to full load is required.
A demonstration of the proper condition and operation of launching appliances at loads ranging
from light load to 10% overload is required whenever the falls are turned end-for-end or renewed.
During an inspection for initial or renewal of SLE, any portion of the load test conducted in
connection with replacement or end-for-ending a fall since the vessel’s previous inspection for
initial or renewal of SLE need not be repeated.
2. Light Load Test The boat should be lowered into the water and released. Operating the launching
system at light load demonstrates that the mass of the boat is sufficient to overcome the frictional
resistance of the winch, falls, sheaves, blocks and associated gear. This test is specially
important on older installations to test the condition of rollers, bushings, bearings, and other
rolling and sliding parts.
3. Full Load Test The boat is lowered to the embarkation position. Tricing pendants are
disconnected. Weight is added to bring the lifeboat to full load condition. During loading, the boat
should be held alongside the ship by means of the installed frapping and/or bowsing gear. The
fully loaded boat should be lowered using the normal lowering procedure and using the on-deck
winch control position. During lowering, alternatively release and apply the brake so that the boat
stops at approximately 2 m intervals. Complete at least three start-stop cycles. Stop lowering just
as the boat reaches the water. The keel should be at or in the water but there should still be
tension on the falls. Release the boat using the on-load release mechanism control. Release
mechanisms with a hydrostatic lock will require use of the emergency override device to permit
on-load release. The release mechanism must open all hooks simultaneously and release the
boat into the water. Unload the boat, recover it with the winch, and return it to its stowed position.
Observe operation of the limit switches as the davit approaches the stowed position. Anyone on
board the boat should disembark at the deck level.
4. Caution: NO ONE SHOULD BE IN THE BOAT WHEN THE WEIGHT OF THE DAVIT IS TAKEN
UP BY WINCH AND THE DAVIT MOVES INTO ITS STOWAGE POSITION.
5. During the test, there should be no deformation of, or damage to the launching appliance or its
connection to the vessel. The brake must be a “DEADMAN” type. When the operator releases the
brake handle, the davit must apply the brake, stopping the boat, without any additional force.
IV - 3
CHECKLIST ACP ENVIRONMENTAL SURVEYS

ALTERNATE COMPLIANCE AND THE U.S. SUPPLEMENT TO ABS RULES
TO BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH INITIAL, MAS, AND RENEWAL MARPOL
ANNEX I SURVEYS
1. Marine Portable Tanks (MPTs), were labeled showing compliance with IM 101, IM 102, or
exemption issued according to 49 CFR 107 (Subpart B) and installed and tested IAW 46 CFR 64.
2. The Vessel’s Fuel and Bulk Oil Containment arrangements were examined and found to be in
compliance with 33 CFR 155.320.
3. The Vessel’s Oil Placards indicating that discharge of oil is prohibited were examined and found
in each machinery space and at control stations for ballast and bilge controls.
4. Cargo Discharge Containment arrangements were examined and found to be in compliance with
33 CFR 155.310.
5. Emergency Shutdown of cargo transfers within the vessel was examined and found to be in
compliance with 33 CFR 155.780.
6. On tank vessels, is the illumination of the deck in transfer operation work areas and at transfer
connections adequate? 33 CFR 155.790(b)
7. Cargo Transfer Hose testing was witnessed or an affidavit sighted from a responsible individual,
that hoses had been hydrostatically tested and marked according to 33 CFR 155.800.
a. Pipe and manifold labeling was checked for accuracy and legibility.
8. Tank Vessel’s approved OPA Vessel Response Plan complying with 33 CFR 155.1010 was
verified onboard.
9. Vessel’s approved shipboard oil pollution emergency plan (SOPEP) (MARPOL ANNEX 1,
REGULATION 26), was verified on board.
10. Tank Vessel of length 400 ft or greater was examined and found to have Oil Discharge Removal
Equipment complying with 33 CFR 155.205 for on-deck spills up to 12 bbl stowed in marked
location.
11. Tank Vessel of length less than 400 feet was examined and found to have Oil Discharge
Removal Equipment complying with 33 CFR 155.210 for on-deck spills up to 7 bbl stowed in
marked location.
12. Vessel was examined and found to have oil discharge removal equipment complying with 33 CFR
155.220 (Permit issued or NLS Certificate issued) and COI authorized C and D NLS Cargoes.
13. Tank Vessel’s Cargo Internal Transfer Equipment was examined and found to be in compliance
with 33 CFR 155.225.
14. Vapor control systems were examined for compliance with 46 CFR 39, and a representative
sample of alarms were tested and found to be in proper operation.
15. NOTE: Tank Vessel carrying animal fats and “other oils” are considered as a vessel carrying “oil”
in accordance with 33 CFR 157.03(n).
IV - 4

ANNEX IV (Sewage) SURVEYS
1. Marine Sanitation Devices were examined, devices found to be certified in accordance with 33
CFR 159 as Type I, II, or III, as appropriate, and continue to be in satisfactory operating condition
and arrangement.

ANNEX V (Garbage) SURVEYS
1. The Vessel was verified to be keeping Garbage Disposal Records required by 33 CFR 151.55.
2. The Vessel’s approved Waste Management Plan complying with 33 CFR 151.57 was verified
onboard.
3. Placards describing prohibited waste discharges as required by CFR 151.59 were verified as
posted.
IV - 5
U. S. Supplement Section V
V. SURVEYS DURING CONSTRUCTION
CHECKLIST ON ACP CLASSIFICATION SURVEYS NCS V-1
V-i
U. S. Supplement Section V
ACP NEW CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS

ALTERNATE COMPLIANCE AND THE US SUPPLEMENT TO ABS RULES –
NEW CONSTRUCTION
TO BE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WITH ISSUANCE OF THE INTERIM
CLASSIFICATION CERTIFICATE
1. The Surveyors involved with the new construction were qualified in the ACP process and
the ABS processes for new construction.
2. Are communication cables routed to avoid high risk fire areas and are telephone
installations in the weather located in a watertight enclosure with an external audible
signaling device?
3. Is the stop control for the emergency generator located only in the room containing the
emergency generator?
4. Were the additional requirements for vessels carrying hazardous cargoes complied with
and tested as necessary?
5. Were valves verified to meet the requirements of positive shutoff category A or category
B in the required piping system?
6. Sounding tubes, where fitted to oil tanks, were verified to not have perforations or
openings throughout their length?
7. For vessels with automatic or remote control and monitoring systems, are the following
approved manuals found on board:
a. Qualitative Failure Analysis (propulsion controls, monitoring and alarm systems,
automated electric power management system, all other automated systems that
may potentially constitute a safety hazard (e.g. stabilization systems, integrated
propulsion/steering systems)
b. Planned Maintenance Program
c. Design Verification Test Procedures (all automated systems)
8. Was the steering failure alarm tested and found satisfactory?
9. On tank vessels, were the additional requirements for cargo vapor emission control
systems verified?
10. Were all required placards, instructions, and identification labels found to be in
accordance with the supplement?
V-1
U. S. Supplement Section VI

(In addition to the Cites below, check all applicable Passenger Vessels Marine Safety Center
(MSC) Plan Review Guidelines (PRG’s) – Interpretations.
Go to http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/home.do use link to MSC – References to PRG)
Cite: II-1/13 Openings in Watertight Bulkheads Below the Bulkhead Deck VI-1
in Passenger Ships
Cite: II-1/17 Internal Watertight Integrity of Passenger Ships Above the VI-1
Bulkhead Deck
Cite: II-1/42 Emergency Source of Electrical Power in Passenger Ships VI-1
Cite: II-2/13 Means of Escape VI-1
Cite: II-2/20.6 Protection of Special Category Spaces VI-2
Cite: II-2/20.6 & Protection of Special Category Spaces VI-3

II-2/20.3.1.3
Cite: III/22 Personal Life-Saving Appliances VI-3
Cite: III/22.4.1.2 Personal Life-Saving Appliances – Immersion Suits and VI-3

Thermal Protective Aids
VI - i

Cite: II-1/13 Openings in Watertight Bulkheads Below the Bulkhead Deck

in Passenger Ships
All watertight doors in subdivision bulkheads shall be numbered conspicuously on both sides on
an etched plate or equivalent in not less than 10 mm (3/8 in) letters and figures “W.T.D. 1,” “2,”
“3,” etc. If stenciled or similar notice is used, the letters and figures shall be at least 25 mm (1 in)
high. If the construction is such that the number cannot be seen with the door in the open
position, a similar number shall be placed on the frame or other location immediately adjacent to
the door. All watertight door remote control stations shall be marked in the same manner, and in
addition, the direction of operation of the lever or wheel to open and close the door shall be
conspicuously marked. Doors fitted in accordance with Subdivision and Stability requirements
must be additionally marked “RECLOSE AFTER USE.”
Cite: II-1/17 Internal Watertight Integrity of Passenger Ships Above the Bulkhead
Deck
Arrangement to ensure the watertight integrity of the structure above the bulkhead deck must
adhere to the guidance contained in MSC/Cir.541- Guidance Notes on the integrity of flooding
boundaries above the bulkhead deck of passenger ships for proper application of SOLAS
Chapter II-1. Coamings of ample height means at least 15.2 cm (5.98 inches.)
Cite: II-1/42 Emergency Source of Electrical Power in Passenger Ships
There must be visible indicators in the machinery space to show when the automatically
controlled emergency power source is supplying the emergency loads.
Cite: II-2/13 Means of Escape
Stairways on passenger ships shall comply with the following:
The two means of escape required by Regulation 13, paragraphs 3.2.1 and 3.2.2 shall be as
remote as possible to minimize the possibility of one incident blocking both escapes. Vertical
ladders and deck scuttles shall not in general be considered as one of the required means of
escape. However, where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be
impracticable, a vertical ladder may be used as the second means of escape.
Doors giving access to either of the two required means of escape shall not be lockable, except
that crash doors or locking devices, capable of being easily forced in an emergency, may be
employed provided that a permanent and conspicuous notice giving instructions on how to open
the door or lock is attached to both sides of the door.
Vertical communication shall be provided between weather decks by means of permanent

inclined ladders. Where ladders are for the exclusive use of the crew, and do not form part of the
escape route, vertical ladders may be employed.
VI - 1
Small rooms or spaces having a secondary means of escape which is not obviously apparent shall
have a suitable sign in red letters “EMERGENCY EXIT” directing attention to such escape.
Readily accessible enclosed stairway as referred to in SOLAS II-2/13.3.2.4.1 is defined to mean

it must either be in the MVZ or immediately adjacent to the zone such that entrance into the
stairway does not require entering into the adjoining zone to gain access to the stairway.
In addition to the requirements of paragraph 3.2.1.2, the requirements of paragraph 7.3.1 apply to
corridors which are 6 feet or more in width in all passenger vessels.
Cite: II-2/20.6 Protection of Special Category Spaces
Where a manual sprinkling system is installed for protection of vehicle decks, it shall comply
with Regulation II-2/20.6.1.2, IMO Assembly Resolution A.123(V), and the following:
Capacity and Arrangement
The system shall be arranged to effectively distribute water into all spaces to be protected. The
application rate shall be at least 3.5 liters/min/m² (0.07gal/min/ft²) for spaces with a deck height
not exceeding 2.5 m (8.2 ft) and a capacity of at least 5 liters/min/m² (0.1gal/min/ft²) for spaces
with a deck height of 2.5 m (8.2 ft) or more.
Controls
Complete, but simple instructions for the operation of the system shall be located in a
conspicuous place at or near the controls.
Piping
All piping, valves, and fittings shall meet Part 4, Chapter 6 of the ABS Steel Vessels Rules for
pipe material, pipe design, fabrication and testing, and piping general installation requirements as
modified by this supplement
All piping, valves, and fittings of ferrous materials shall be protected inside and outside against
corrosion unless specifically approved otherwise.
All piping, valves, and fittings shall be securely supported, and where necessary, protected
against injury.
Drains, strainers and dirt traps shall be fitted where necessary to prevent the accumulation of dirt
or moisture.
Distribution piping shall be used for no other purpose.
Markings
The control cabinets or spaces containing valves or manifolds shall be distinctly marked in
conspicuous red letters at least 50 mm (2 in) high – “MANUAL SPRINKLING SYSTEM”.
VI - 2
Cite: II-2/20.6 & Protection of Special Category Spaces

II-2/20.3.1.3
The alarm required to indicate loss of ventilation in spaces specially suitable for vehicles shall be
marked with a conspicuous sign in at least 8 mm (1/4 in) letters “VENTILATION FAILURE IN
VEHICULAR SPACE.”
Cite: III/22 Personal Life-Saving Appliances
Immersion suits and thermal protective aids are required to be provided for persons
accommodated in totally or partially enclosed lifeboats, unless the vessel operates only on routes
between 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south latitude.
Cite: III/22.4.1.2 Personal Life-Saving Appliances – Immersion Suits and Thermal

Protective Aids
The warm climate exemption in Regulation 22.4.1.2 applies to ships operating only on routes
between 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south latitude.
An immersion suit or anti-exposure suit of suitable size for each person is to be provided for
each person assigned to a marine evacuation system crew.
VI - 3
U. S. Supplement Section VII
VII. IBC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

U.S. Interpretations and Guidance Related to the International Code
for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying
Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code)
Unless otherwise noted below, ABS is authorized to interpret the expressions “left to the
satisfaction of the Administration,” or similar expressions in the IBC Code pertaining to the
International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk.
Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular No. 03-06 provides “Guidance on implementation of
revisions to MARPOL Annex II and the IBC Code,” which is considered to be U.S. Coast Guard
policy.
Chapter 1 – General
1.1.3 USCG will handle matters relating to carriage conditions of cargoes not listed in the
IBC Code.
1.3.16 The approved closed cup flashpoint test uses the Tagliabue apparatus.
1.3.2 Generally, USCG acts as the administration for findings of equivalency.
1.5 Under this section, the Administration means the USCG.
1.5.4.1 The Certificate of Fitness issued by ABS on behalf of the USCG will not include an
asterisk against the ship’s type notation
Chapter 2 – Ship Survival Capability and Location of Cargo Tanks
2.2.2 Intact Stability shall also meet the requirements for gas carriers contained in 46 CFR
Subchapter S (or equivalent) for gas carriers 46 CFR 172.165, which states:
(a) Design calculations must show that 2 inches (50 mm) of positive metacentric
height can be maintained by each tankship when it is being loaded and
unloaded.
(b) For the purpose of demonstrating compliance with the requirements of

paragraph (a) of this section, the effects of the addition of water ballast may be
considered.
2.3.3 The valve shall be to ABS rules.
2.8.2 No dispensations for smaller ships will be allowed.
2.9.2.3 Residual stability should not be less than that allowed in 2.9.3.
VII - 1
Chapter 3 – Ship Arrangements
3.4.4 Smaller dimensions are not permitted unless authorized by the USCG.
3.7.2 Toxic cargoes cannot be unloaded bow or stern unless authorized by the USCG.
3.7.3 USCG must authorize relaxations.
3.7.3.5 Alternative arrangements must be authorized by the USCG.
Chapter 4 – Cargo Containment
4.1.3 ABS rules apply for tank testing.
4.1.4 ASME Code Section VIII, Division 1 or 2, applies for pressure vessel design.
Chapter 5 – Cargo Transfer
5.1.1 Piping classification standards are listed in 46 CFR 56.04 and piping design standards
are listed in 46 CFR 56.07.
5.1.3 Flanges, valves, and fittings should meet applicable standards of the ASME.
5.2.1 Relaxations must be authorized by the USCG.
5.2.2 Exceptional cases should be authorized by the USCG.
5.2.3 Piping joint selection and limitations are listed in 46 CFR 56.30.
5.2.4 Bellows are not permitted.
5.2.5 Welding, post weld heat treatment and non-destructive testing standards are listed in
46 CFR 56.70, 56.85, and 56.95, respectively.
5.4.1 Relaxations must be authorized by USCG.
5.7 Hoses must have either full threaded connections; ANSI B16.2, 16.24, or B16.31
flanges; or Class 1 quick connect couplings that meet ASTM F1122 and marked “C1-
1.” The hose should be marked with the date of manufacture and be in good condition
(no loose covers, kinks, bulges, soft spots, or gouges/cuts which penetrate the hose
reinforcement.) The hose should also be marked with the date of its last inspection,
which should be conducted with the hose in a straight, flat, horizontal position and
include a static pressure test at the maximum operating pressure.
VII - 2
Chapter 6 – Materials of Construction
6.1.1 Materials must meet ABS rules.
6.3 Prohibited materials. When one of the following paragraphs of this section is
referenced in Table 1 of 46 CFR part 153, the materials listed in that paragraph may
not be used in components that contact the cargo liquid or vapor:
(a) Aluminum or aluminum alloys

(b) Copper or copper alloys
(c) Zinc, galvanized steel or alloys having more than 10 percent zinc by weight
(d) Magnesium
(e) Lead
(f) Silver or silver alloys
(g) Mercury
Required materials. When one of the following paragraphs of this section is

referenced in Table 1 of 46 CFR part 153, only those materials listed in that
paragraph may be used in components that contact the cargo liquid or vapor:
(a) Aluminum, stainless steel, or steel covered with a protective lining or coating
(b) With cargo concentrations of 98 percent or greater, aluminum or stainless steel
(c) With cargo concentrations of less than 98 percent, 304L or 316 stainless steel
(d) Solid austenitic stainless steel
(e) Stainless steel or steel covered with a suitable protective lining or coating
Chapter 7 – Cargo Temperature Control
7.1.1 Construction, fitting and testing must comply with ABS rules.
Chapter 8 – Cargo Tank Vent Systems
8.3.4 High velocity vents must be approved in accordance with 46 CFR Subchapter Q.
8.3.5 Flame arresters installed on tanks should meet ASTM F-1273.
Chapter 10 – Electrical Installations
10.1.4 No electric motors may be installed in chemical tanks. Pump motor arrangements
must provide for an automatic shutdown if the pump loses suction. A pump motor
shutdown must actuate audible and visual alarms and either a lockable circuit breaker
or lockable switch that disconnects power to the motor must be provided.
10.1.5 The National Electric Code, NFPA 70, Art. 500-504, shall be the standard of
hazardous areas. Section I, Cites 4-8-3/13 and Section II, Cite: II-1/45 apply.
10.1.6 Electric motors are not permitted in the cargo area.
VII - 3
Chapter 11 – Fire Protection and Fire Extinction
11.2.2 Tankers carrying a restricted number of cargoes should not receive relaxations.
11.3.2 All foam concentrates shall be approved for the cargoes authorized to be carried.
11.3.7 Reduced monitor capacities for ships less than 4,000 DWT should be referred to
USCG.
Chapter 12 – Mechanical Ventilation in the Cargo Area
12.2 No special requirements.
Chapter 13 – Instrumentation
13.2.3 Exemptions from toxic-vapor detection are only to be authorized by USCG.
Chapter 14 – Personnel Protection
14.1.2 Interpretation of the expression “adequate segregation” is left to the classification

society, subject to USCG oversight.
Chapter 15 – Special Requirements
15.2.3 USCG only authorizes carriage of ammonium nitrate (93 percent or less) in tanks
which have not contained other cargoes.
15.3.7 Cargo pump well shall extend to within 10 cm of tank bottom (46 CFR 153.520(a)).
15.5 Cooling systems, when fitted, should also be provided with leak detection systems.
15.6.3 USCG only authorizes entry into tanks which have not contained MFAK compounds.
15.7 Only the USCG can authorize carriage of molten phosphorous.
15.8.11 The materials listed are not acceptable under any circumstances.
15.8.22.2 The refrigeration requirements may not be waived.
15.8.25.2 Cargo handling plans are left to the classification society, subject to USCG oversight.
15.8.26.3 Cargo tank filling limits are left to the classification society, subject to USCG
oversight.
15.8.29 The water spray shall operate automatically in a fire involving the cargo containment
system, have at least two manual actuators, and have an application rate of 10.5 liters
per square meter per minute.
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15.12.1.4 High velocity vents must be approved in accordance with 46 CFR Subchapter Q.
15.14.3 No waivers will be granted for restricted operations.
15.19.7 ABS is authorized to act on behalf of the Administration.
Chapter 16 – Operational Requirements
16.2.2 USCG will review all cargoes which are mixtures.
16.5.1 Samples must be stored in the cargo area.
Chapter 16A – Additional Measures for the Protection of the Marine Environment
No special interpretations.
Chapter 17 – Summary of Minimum Requirements
For the purpose of material requirements, compliance with the special requirements in 46 CFR
Part 153 of Table 1 of part 1 is required.
Chapter 18 – List of Chemicals to Which the Code Does Not Apply
No special interpretations.
Chapter 19 – Index of Products Carried in Bulk
No special requirements.
Chapter 20 – Transportation of Liquid Chemical Wastes
Transportation of liquid chemical wastes, although not generally permitted, require USCG
authorization in concert with the US EPA.
VII - 5
U. S. Supplement Section VIII
VIII. IGC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

U.S. Interpretations and Guidance Related to the International Code
for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying
Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code)
Unless otherwise noted below, ABS is authorized to interpret the expressions “left to the
satisfaction of the Administration” and similar terms, in the IGC Code pertaining to the
International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk. Carriage of
chlorine is not permitted without the prior agreement of the USCG.
Chapter 1 – General
1.1.6 USCG acts only as a port administration for this requirement.
1.4 USCG acts as the Administration for this section.
1.5 USCG acts as the Administration for this section.
1.5.4.2 The Certificate of Fitness issued by ABS on behalf of the USCG will not include
an asterisk against the ship type notation.
Chapter 2 – Ship Survival Capability and Location of Cargo Tanks
2.2.2 Intact stability shall also meet the requirements for gas carriers contained in 46
CFR 172.165, which states:
(a) Design calculations must show that 2 inches (50 mm) of positive
metacentric height can be maintained by each tankship when it is being
loaded and unloaded.
(b) For the purpose of demonstrating compliance with the requirements of
paragraph (a) of this section, the effects of the addition of water ballast may
be considered.
2.2.3 An acceptable method for determining free surface is contained in the 2008 IS
Code.
2.9.1.3 Residual stability should not be less than the requirement in 2.9.2.1.
Chapter 3 – Ship Arrangements
3.1.1 Machinery spaces forward of the cargo area are not normally permitted.
3.3.1.1 Relaxation of the pump or compressor room location requirement is not

permitted.
3.5.3.2.1 Relaxation of the access dimensions is not permitted.
VIII - 1
3.8.1.1 Bow and stern unloading is not permitted for toxic products.
3.8.4 Relaxation of this section’s requirements is not permitted.
Chapter 4 – Cargo Containment
4.1 Cargo containment systems not previously accepted by the USCG will require
USCG review and approval. A list of cargo containment systems currently
accepted by the USCG may be obtained from Commandant (CG-522).
4.2.2.3 See Note concerning 4.1
4.2.4.2 Recognized standards are ABS Rules.
4.2.4.4 Type C tanks may only be allocated to Type B.
4.2.5.4 Internal insulation tanks shall not have a design vapor pressure greater than 0.7
bar.
4.2.6.4 Higher vapor pressures in port are subject to USCG approval.
4.2.7 Provisions to cover low temperature prevention are covered in Chapter 13.
4.3.2.1 Equivalent calculation procedures must be submitted to USCG.
4.3.4.3 Simplified loading spectra shall not be used.
4.3.4.5 No special consideration shall be given for restricted service.
4.4.1 Integral tanks must meet ABS Rules.
4.4.2.5 ABS SafeHull shall be used for structural analysis, and ABS Rules will be used
for recognized standards.
4.4.4.1 ABS Rules will be used for recognized standards.
4.4.4.2 ABS Rules will be used for recognized standards.
4.4.5.5 Model tests will normally be required.
4.5.1.4 The value of A shall be 4.0 for all materials.
4.5.1.6 For type C tanks, the stress factor “A” must be taken as 4.0, regardless of the
material type.
4.4.6 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code will be used as the acceptable standard,
except as required otherwise.
VIII - 2
4.4.7.2.1 ABS SafeHull will be used for structural analysis.
4.4.7.2.3 ABS Rules are the recognized standards
4.4.7.3 See Note on 4.1.
4.5.1.1 ABS Rules are recognized standards.
4.5.1.3 Acceptable stresses are those which agree with ABS Rules.
4.5.1.4 Vessels operating in US waters shall be designed with Stress factors IAW 46 CFR
154 Table 2.
4.5.1.5 As above.
4.5.1.7.2 Special consideration of improved tensile and yield properties must be

demonstrated to the USCG.
4.5.1.10 Unspecified materials must be reviewed by USCG.
4.5.2.1 Corrosion allowances will be required for tanks that are not surrounded by inert
gas or dry air or for corrosive cargoes. USCG will provide the values for these
allowances upon request.
4.7.3 Semi-membrane tanks shall have a full secondary barrier.
4.7.7 Either a pressure/vacuum test or a visual test shall be specified.
4.8.1 The longitudinal contiguous hull structure of a vessel having cargo containment
systems with secondary barriers must be designed for a temperature that is either:
(1) Colder that the calculated temperature of this hull structure when: (i) the
temperature of the secondary barrier is the design temperature; and (ii) for
operation anywhere except Alaskan waters, the ambient cold condition of (A) 5
knots air at -18ºC; and (B) still sea water at 0ºC; or (iii) for operation in Alaskan
waters, the ambient cold condition of (A) 5 knots air at -29ºC; and (B) still sea
water at – 2ºC; or (2) maintained by the heating system under 46 CFR 154.178.
4.8.4.4 In general, hull heating systems are not acceptable.
4.9.1 Recognized standards are ABS Rules, but vessels trading to the U.S. should have
crack arresting steels in way of the deck stringer, shear strake, and turn of the
bilge that meet the grades specified in 46 CFR 154.170(b).
4.9.8 Quality control of insulation is delegated, subject to USCG oversight.
4.10.1.2.1 Alternative edge penetrations are generally not permitted.
VIII - 3
4.10.1.2.2 The ASME Code is the acceptable standard; other standards require USCG
approval.
4.10.2 USCG should be contacted concerning workmanship. In general, tolerances shall

be half of the ASME Code.
4.10.5.2 Sampling tests shall be according to ABS Rules.
4.10.6 Testing should be in accordance with ABS Rules for type A tanks, USCG
requirements for type B tanks, and ASME Code requirements for type C tanks.
4.10.8.3 ABS tank testing rules are satisfactory to USCG.
4.10.9 ASME Code is the standard acceptable.
4.10.10.3.4 Hydro-pneumatic testing is not acceptable.
4.10.10.3.5 Higher stresses are not acceptable.
4.10.12 See Note concerning 4.7.7
4.10.13 Tanks constructed to the ASME Code do not need stress level confirmation.
4.11.1.4 Soaking should be according to the ASME Code.
4.11.2 Stress relief shall comply with the ASME Code.
4.11.2.14 Mechanical stress relief methods must be approved beforehand by USCG.
Chapter 5 – Process Pressure Vessels and Liquid, Vapor, and Pressure Piping Systems
5.1.2 Process pressure vessels shall meet the ASME Code.
5.2.2.1 Piping standards shall be as required by 46 CFR Subchapter F.
5.3.2.1 No higher or lower temperature may be specified.
5.3.2.2 No higher or lower temperature may be specified.
5.2.4.4 No lower design pressure may be accepted.
5.2.4.5 Flanges must comply with ASME B16.5.
5.2.5 Stress analysis is delegated to ABS subject to oversight by USCG.

VIII - 4
5.3.2.2.2 In general, pressure tests need not be performed at the design temperature.
5.3.2.2.5 Performance of tests may not be waived.
5.4.2.3 Piping standards shall be as required by 46 CFR Subchapter F.
5.4.3 Alternative piping arrangements require USCG approval.
5.4.3.2 Flanges must comply with ASME B16.5.
5.4.6.2 Thermal stress relieving may not be waived.
5.4.6.3.1 Radiography may not be reduced.
5.5.1 No relaxations are permitted.
5.5.2 Alternative fluids must be liquids that have a flashpoint greater than 125°F.
Chapter 6 – Materials of Construction
6.1.3 Recognized standards are ABS Rules.
6.1.4.1 A Charpy V-Notch test is required.
6.1.4.2 Other tests may not be substituted for the Charpy V-Notch test.
6.1.4 Material properties must meet ABS Rules.
6.1.5 Alternative chemical properties are not acceptable.
Table 6.1 Footnotes – No special approval is permitted.
Table 6.2 Footnotes – No special agreement or approval is permitted.
Table 6.3 Footnotes – No special variations are permitted. Generally charpy

testing should be required.
Table 6.4 Footnotes – No special variations are permitted. Generally, charpy

testing shall be required.
6.3.1 Testing may not be omitted. Generally, charpy testing should be required.
6.3.2 Welding consumables shall meet ABS Rules for type A tanks, USCG
specifications for type B tanks, and ASME Code requirements for type C tanks.
Welding tests may not be waived.
6.3.3.1 Radiography is required.

VIII - 5
6.3.3.2.2 Transverse bend tests are at the discretion of the classification society.
6.3.3.2.4 Requirements for these tests are left to the discretion of the classification society.
6.3.4.2 No special agreement is permitted.
6.3.4.3 Recognized standards for this section will be individually reviewed.
6.3.5 Test requirements should be in accordance with 6.3.4.
6.3.6.1 A reduction in test for secondary barrier is not acceptable.
6.3.6.2.2 USCG will consider alternatives to the energy requirements, on a case-by-case

basis.
6.3.6.3 USCG will consider alternatives to the energy requirements, on a case-by-case

basis.
6.3.6.4 Integral and membrane tests must be inspected according to USCG approved
standards available from the manufacturer.
6.3.7.1.2 Tank examination will be as approved by USCG for the tank designed.
6.3.7.1.3 ABS Rules shall be the recognized standards, except that for membrane tanks, the
USCG accepted manufacturer’s procedures shall be used.
6.3.7.3 See Note for 6.3.7.1.3.
Chapter 7 – Cargo Pressure/Temperature Control
7.1 Refrigeration systems shall meet 46 CFR 154.702. Stand-by unit is required.
Unless refrigeration system is installed, cargoes with a vapor pressure exceeding
the MARVS at 45ºC are not authorized in US Waters
7.1.1 Design of cargo pressure and temperature control must contain cargo for 21 days,
and cargo venting cannot be used to control tank pressure while in U.S. ports.
7.1.2 Special design ambient temperatures apply for Alaskan waters, as given in 46
CFR 154.176.
Chapter 8 – Cargo Tank Vent Systems
8.2.2 Pressure/vacuum relief is delegated to ABS, subject to USCG oversight.
8.2.5 ABS is the acceptable authority.
8.2.7 Changing of relief valve settings will be overseen by a surveyor of ABS.

VIII - 6
8.2.10 No relaxation of this requirement is accepted for ships less than 90 m.
8.4.2.3 Other vacuum relief systems must be handled under the conditions of 1.4.
8.5.2 Approval for F=0.5 is delegated to the ABS, subject to USCG oversight.
Chapter 9 – Environmental Control
9.5.2 A check valve is an acceptable means.
Chapter 10 – Electrical Installations
The National Electric Code, NFPA 70, Art. 500-504, shall be applied.
10.1 The applicable standards of Section I, Cite: 4-8-3/13; Section II, Cite: II-1/45; and
IEC 92-502 (1980) apply.
Chapter 11 – Fire Protection and Fire Extinction
11.3.4 When the fire main pumps are used to supply the water spray system, the fire
main must still be able to operate at full capacity.
11.4.3 ABS is delegated to accept standards for ships with a capacity less than 1,000
cubic meters.
11.4.4 Suitable alternatives will be considered according to 1.4.
11.5.2 Relaxations are not permitted for ships carrying a restricted number of cargoes.
Chapter 12 – Mechanical Ventilation in the Cargo Area
12.1.5 Positive pressure ventilation is not acceptable.
Chapter 13 – Instrumentation (Gauging, Gas Detection)
13.1.4 Testing intervals and procedures are delegated to ABS, subject to USCG
oversight. Vessels in U.S. ports should be able to demonstrate that the instruments
function, and in the case of gas detection, that they are properly calibrated.
13.2.4 Gauge glasses need USCG approval, but are generally not acceptable.
13.3.1 USCG should be contacted in the case that it is the port authority. Sensors
required for automatic closing of the shut-off valve for overflow controls as
specified by 13.3.1 and the liquid level as specified by 13.2.1 must be
independent of each other, however, the sensors may send signals to the same
actuator.
VIII - 7
13.5.4 Temperature sensors should be at the bottom of the tank and near the top of the
tank, below the maximum filling level.
13.6.1 Gas detection is delegated to ABS, subject to USCG oversight.
13.6.11 Other limits are not acceptable.
13.6.13 Portable gas detectors should meet the thresholds specified by OSHA.
Chapter 14 – Personnel Protection
14.2.4 The provisions of this paragraph are not acceptable.
14.4.5 This requirement is delegated to ABS, subject to USCG oversight.
Chapter 15 – Filling Limits for Cargo Tanks
15.1.3 Higher filling limits are permitted IAW Resolution A.829(19).
15.2 The approval of this list is delegated without restriction.
Chapter 16 – Use of Cargo as Fuel
16.6 This requirement is delegated to ABS, subject to USCG oversight.
Chapter 17 – Special Requirements
17.1 Carbon Dioxide is not permitted in US Waters.
17.14 Chlorine may not be carried in U.S. waters.
17.18.3 Other compositions require USCG approval.
17.19 Nitrogen cargo carriage requires special USCG approval.
Methyl acetylene propadiene mixtures (MAPP gas) shall be carried only in one of
the two compositions specified in the applicable Gas Code.
17.20 Propylene oxide may be authorized for carriage subject to the following special
restrictions:
(1) Classification society certification that the required cargo piping separation
has been achieved must be on board the vessel and available to Coast Guard
boarding personnel.
VIII - 8
(2) All gaskets which may contact propylene oxide liquid or vapor must be
constructed from spirally wound stainless steel with a filler of Teflon or
similar fluorinated polymer.
(3) Neoprene, natural rubber, asbestos mixed with other materials, and materials
containing oxides of magnesium (such as mineral wools) may not be used
for packing, insulation and similar items in the propylene oxide containment
system and piping.
The following requirements apply to the carriage of ethylene oxide/propylene

oxide mixtures (containing a maximum of 30% ethylene oxide):
(1) The requirements for propylene oxide given above must be followed.
(2) When this cargo is carried without refrigeration the cargo tank relief valve
setting shall not be less than 120 kPa gauge (17 psig).
17.20.3.1 Only steel or stainless steel are acceptable.
17.20.13.2 The approval of handling plans is delegated to ABS.
17.20.14 The approval of filling limits is delegated to ABS.
17.21 Operational requirements for the carriage of Vinyl Chloride:
Fixed or portable instruments shall be used to continuously monitor for vinyl

chloride vapor leaks during vinyl chloride transfer operations. The method of
monitoring and measurement shall have an accuracy (with a confidence level of
95 percent) of not less than ± 50 % from 0.25 through 0.5 ppm, ± 35% from over
0.5 ppm through 1.0 ppm, and ± 25% over 1.0 ppm;
Cargo transfer operation is discontinued or corrective action is initiated by the

person in charge to minimize exposure to personnel whenever a vinyl chloride
vapor concentration in excess of 1 ppm is detected. If the vinyl chloride vapor
concentration exceeds 5 ppm for over 15 minutes, action to reduce the leak can be
continued only if the respiratory protection requirements of 29 CFR 1910.1017
are met by all personnel in the area of the leak;
Those portions of cargo lines which will be open to the atmosphere after piping is
disconnected are free of vinyl chloride liquid and the vinyl chloride vapor
concentration in the area of the cargo piping disconnect points is not greater than
5 ppm;
Any restricted gauge fitted on a tank containing vinyl chloride is locked or sealed
so that it cannot be used and a restricted gauge is not used as a check on the
required closed gauge, nor as a means of sampling;
VIII - 9
The words “CANCER-SUSPECT AGENT” are added to the warning signs

required by 46 CFR 154.1830, and signs bearing the legend: “CANCER-
SUSPECT AGENT IN THIS AREA, PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED,
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY” are posted whenever hazardous
operations, such as tank cleaning, are in progress;
A vessel undergoing cargo transfer operations be designated a “regulated area”

having access limited to authorized persons and requiring a daily roster of
authorized persons who may board, and;
Employees engaged in hazardous operations, such as tank cleaning, be required to

wear and use respiratory protection in accordance with the provisions of 29 CFR
1910.1017 and protective garments, provided clean and dry for each use, to
prevent skin contact with liquid vinyl chloride.
Chapter 18 – Operating Requirements
Chapter 19 – Summary of Minimum Requirements
VIII - 10
U. S. Supplement Section IX
IX. REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS

CERTIFICATED UNDER SUBCHAPTER L, EXCEPT LIFTBOATS
Scope: This section specifies additional or different requirements that apply to Subchapter L
OSV’s (except liftboats) certificated under Subchapter L enrolled or to be enrolled in
the Alternate Compliance Program.
Note: Subchapter L “Liftboats” is not included in this Section.
Table of Contents
Cite: A-1 Stability IX-1

Cite: A-2 Carriage of Flammable or Combustible Liquid Cargoes in Bulk IX-1
Cite: A-3 Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk IX-1
Cite: A-4 Cranes IX-2
Cite: A-5 Carriage of Offshore Workers IX-2
Cite: A-6 Means of Escape IX-2
Cite: A-7 Accommodations for Crew Members and Offshore Workers IX-3
Cite: A-8 Keel Cooler Installations IX-4
Cite: A-9 Liquid-Mud Systems IX-4
Cite: A-10 Dual Voltage Generators IX-4
Cite: A-10a Grounded Distribution System IX-4
Cite A-11 Automation of Unattended Machinery Spaces IX-4
Cite: A-15 Fire Stations IX-4
Cite: A-16 Fire Monitors IX-4
IX - i
Cite: A-1 Stability
In addition to Section I/Cite: 3-3-1/3.1 for intact stability, OSV’s are also to comply with the
subdivision and damage stability requirements contained in either (a) IMO Res. MSC.235(82),
section 3, or (b) 46 CFR 174.195, 174.200, 174.205, and 174.207.
Cite: A-2 Carriage of Flammable or Combustible Liquid Cargoes in Bulk
Note: Provisions for the carriage of noxious liquid substances in bulk as defined in MARPOL
Annex II may be augmented by appropriate measures promulgated by the Commandant.
An OSV may carry the following in integral tanks:
CG-522 Policy Letter 09-01 “POLICY ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION

A.673(16), GUIDELINES FOR THE TRANSPORT AND HANDLING OF LIMITED
AMOUNTS OF HAZARDOUS AND NOXIOUS LIQUID SUBSTANCES IN BULK ON
OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSELS, FOR NEW AND EXISTING U.S. OFFSHORE
SUPPLY VESSELS” dated 05 April 2010.
Cite: A-3 Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk
(1) CG-522 Policy Letter 09-01 “POLICY ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF

RESOLUTION A.673(16), GUIDELINES FOR THE TRANSPORT AND HANDLING
OF LIMITED AMOUNTS OF HAZARDOUS AND NOXIOUS LIQUID
SUBSTANCES IN BULK ON OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSELS, FOR NEW AND
EXISTING U.S. OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS” dated 05 April 2010.
(2) In addition to the requirements of the Steel Vessels Rules and this Supplement, the
electrical installation on an OSV carrying flammable or combustible liquids in bulk must
comply with the CG-522 Policy Letter 09-01 “POLICY ON THE IMPLEMENTATION
OF RESOLUTION A.673(16), GUIDELINES FOR THE TRANSPORT AND
HANDLING OF LIMITED AMOUNTS OF HAZARDOUS AND NOXIOUS LIQUID
SUBSTANCES IN BULK ON OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSELS, FOR NEW AND
EXISTING U.S. OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS” dated 05 April 2010. See Cite II-
1/45 of Section II.A.
Cite: A-4 Cranes
Cargo Gear is to be certified in accordance with the ABS “Requirements for Certification of
Construction and survey of Cargo Gear on Merchant Vessels”, 1975 or the Guide for
Certification of Cranes, 1991 as applicable for the type of cargo gear being provided.
As an alternative, evidence of approval by the International Cargo Gear Bureau may be

submitted.
Cite: A-5 Carriage of Offshore Workers
IX - 1
Offshore worker means an individual carried aboard an OSV and employed in a phase of
exploration, exploitation, or production of offshore mineral or energy resources served by the
vessel; but it does not include the master or a member of the crew engaged in the business of the
vessel, who has contributed no consideration for carriage aboard and is paid for services aboard.
In no case will the number of offshore workers authorized for carriage exceed 36.
No more than 12 offshore workers may be carried aboard an OSV when on an international
voyage, unless the vessel holds a valid passenger-ship-safety certificate issued in compliance
with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
Cite: A-6 Means of Escape
(a) A vertical ladder ending at a deck scuttle may be the second means of escape if the:
(1) primary means of escape is a stairway or passageway;

(2) installation of another stairway or passageway is impracticable;
(3) scuttle is located where stowed deck cargo could not interfere;
(4) scuttle is fitted with a quick-acting release, and with a hold-back device to hold it
open; and
(5) scuttle meets the requirements for location, strength, and height of coaming in the
International Convention on Load Lines.
(b) Each vertical ladder must:
(1) Have rungs that are:

(i) at least 410 mm (16 in) long;
(ii) at most 300 mm (12 in) apart, uniform for the length of the ladder; and
(iii) at least 180 mm (7 in) from the nearest permanent object in back of the ladder;
(2) Have at least 115 mm (4-1/2 in) of clearance above each rung;
(3) Be made of incombustible materials; and
(4) Have an angle of inclination with the horizontal, greater than 70° but not more than
90°.
(c) No means may be provided for locking any interior door giving access to either of the
two required means of escape, except that a crash door or locking-device, capable of
being easily forced in an emergency, may be employed if a permanent and conspicuous
notice to this effect is attached to both sides of the door. A means may be provided for
locking an exterior door to a deckhouse if the door is:
(1) Locked only by a key under the control of one of the OSV’s officers; and
(2) Always operable from the inside.
Cite: A-7 Accommodations for Crew Members and Offshore Workers
The following requirements apply to accommodations for offshore workers on each vessel:
(1) Each offshore worker aboard must be provided with adequate fixed seating. The width of
each seat should be at least 460 mm (18 in). The spacing of fixed seating must be
IX - 2
sufficient to allow ready escape in case of fire or other emergency. The following are
minimal requirements:
(i) aisles 4.6 m (15 ft) in length or less must not be less than 610 mm (24 in) wide.
(ii) aisles more than 4.6 m (15 ft) in length must not be less than 760 mm (30 in) wide.
(iii) where the seating is in rows, the distance from seat front to seat front must not be
less than 760 mm (30 in).
(2) If the intended operation of a vessel is to carry offshore workers aboard for more than 24
hours, quarters for them must be provided. Each stateroom for use by them must:
(i) berth no more than six workers;

(ii) have clear headroom of at least 1.9 m (6 ft 3 in); and
(iii) contain at least 1.9 m2 (20 ft2) of deck and at least 4 m3 (140 ft3) of space for each
worker accommodated. The presence in a stateroom of equipment for use by the
occupants does not diminish the area or volume of the room.
(3) There must be at least one toilet, one washbasin, and one shower or bathtub for every
eight or fewer offshore workers who do not occupy a stateroom to which a private or a
semiprivate facility is attached.
OSV’s are not required to be outfitted with a Hospital Space required by Section III Cite B.8 of
the U.S. Supplement.
Cite: A-8 Keel Cooler Installations
Fillet welds may be used in the attachment of channels and half-round pipe sections to the
bottom of the vessel.
Cite: A-9 Liquid-Mud Systems
Liquid-mud piping systems may use resiliently seated valves of Category A to comply with Cite
4-4-2/11 of this Supplement.
Cite: A-10 Dual-Voltage Generators
If a dual-voltage generator is installed on an OSV the neutral of the dual-voltage system must be
solidly grounded at the switchboard’s neutral bus and be accessible for checking the insulation
resistance of the generator.
Cite: A-10a Grounded Distribution System
If a grounded distribution system is provided, there must be only one connection to ground,
regardless of the number of power sources.
IX - 3
Cite: A-11 Automation of Unattended Machinery Spaces
OSV’s intended to operate with periodically unattended machinery spaces are to comply with the
class requirements for class notation ACCU as well as other applicable requirements of this
Supplement.
Cite: A-15 Fire Stations
Each outlet at a fire hydrant must be at least 38 mm (1-1/2 in) in diameter and, to minimize the
possibility of kinking, must be fitted so that no hose leads upward from it.
Each fire hydrant must have a fire hose 15.2 m (50 ft) in length, with a minimum diameter of 38
mm (1-1/2 in), connected to an outlet, for use at any time.
A suitable hose rack or other device must be provided for each fire hose. Each rack on a weather
deck must be placed so as to protect its hose from heavy weather.
Cite: A-16 Fire Monitors
When a fire monitor is connected to the fire main system, it must be led from the discharge
manifold of the fire pump. Each fire monitor must be fitted with a shut-off valve at the monitor
and at the connection to the fire pump discharge manifold.
IX - 4
U. S. Supplement Section X
X. REQUIREMENTS FOR OCEANOGRAPHIC RESEARCH VESSELS

Table of Contents
Cite: B-1 Subdivision and Stability X-1
Cite: B-2 Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements X-1
Cite: B-3 Means of Escape X-1
Cite: B-4 Structural Fire Protection X-1
Cite: B-5 Structural Fire Protection – General Laboratory Areas and Chemical
Storerooms X-1
Cite: B-6 Structural Fire Protection – Integral Magazines X-2
Cite: B-7 Segregation of Chemical Laboratories and Chemical Storerooms X-2
Cite: B-8 Construction and Location of Integral Magazines X-2
Cite: B-10 Deck Covering for Chemical Storerooms and Laboratories X-2
Cite: B-11 Deck/Shell Covering for Integral Magazines X-3
Cite: B-12 Ventilation Systems for Chemical Storerooms and Chemical Laboratories X-3
Cite B-13 Ventilation Requirements for Integral Magazines X-3
Cite: B-14 Piping and Electrical Requirements for Chemical Storerooms X-4
Cite: B-15 Electrical Requirements for Chemical Laboratory X-4
Cite: B-16 Electrical Requirements for Integral Magazines X-4
Cite: B-17 Flushing System for Chemical Storerooms and Laboratories X-4
Cite: B-18 Piping Systems for Integral Magazines X-4
Cite: B-19 Fire Extinguishing System for Magazines X-4
Cite: B-20 Firemain X-5
Cite: B-21 Fire Hydrants and Hose X-5
Cite: B-22 Fixed Fire Suppression System VIII-5

X-i
Cite: B-23 Portable Fire Extinguishers VIII-5
Cite: B-24 Hazardous Materials and Explosives VIII-5
Cite: B-25 Explosive Handling Plan VIII-5
Cite: B-26 Magazine Vans and Magazine Chests VIII-6
Cite: B-27 Portable Vans and Tanks VIII-6
Cite: B-28 Weight Handling Gear VIII-6
Cite: B-29 Fire Axes VIII-6
X - ii
VIII. REQUIREMENTS FOR OCEANOGRAPHIC RESEARCH VESSELS

Cite: B-1 Subdivision and Stability
1) Each oceanographic research vessel must meet the subdivision and damage stability
requirements of 46 CFR Part 173, Subpart D
(www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_08/46cfr173_08.html) and SOLAS Chapter II-1
cargo ship requirements.
2) In lieu of the requirement of paragraph 1), an oceanographic research vessel may comply
with SOLAS chapter II-1 passenger ship requirements.
Cite: B-2 Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements
1) Lifesaving appliances and arrangements on oceanographic research vessels are to meet

the SOLAS/ACP Supplement requirements for passenger vessels as follows:
A. Vessels that carry more than 50 special personnel.
B. Vessels that carry not more than 50 special personnel that meet the structural fire
protection regulations for passenger vessels of same size.
2) Lifesaving appliances and arrangements on oceanographic research vessels that carry not
more than 50 special personnel that do not meet the structural fire protection regulations
for passenger vessels of same size are to meet the SOLAS/ACP requirements for cargo
vessels.
Cite: B-3 Means of Escape
There shall be two means of escape from all general areas where scientific personnel may be
quartered or normally employed and from each public space with a deck area greater than 300
ft2. At least one of these two means of escape shall be independent of watertight doors and
hatches, except for quick acting watertight doors giving final access to weather decks.
Cite: B-4 Structural Fire Protection
Oceanographic research vessels that carry more than 150 persons must meet the structural fire
protection requirements in SOLAS/ACP Supplement for Passenger vessels as applicable to
passenger ships carrying more than 36 passengers.
Cite: B-5 Structural Fire Protection – General Laboratory Areas and Chemical Storerooms
1) Laboratories and chemical storerooms shall be considered as “service spaces” for the
application of SOLAS chapter II-2.
2) Boundary bulkheads shall be of “A” class construction; however, if constructed in other
than steel, shall be wholly lined with metal. Refer to 190.05-10 for similarity.
3) Divisional bulkheads that are permanently installed between laboratory spaces within a
general laboratory may be of “B” or “C” class construction.
X-1
4) Divisional bulkheads temporarily installed between laboratory spaces within a general

laboratory area may be constructed of combustible materials when they are necessary to
facilitate a specific scientific mission.
5) Boundary bulkheads and decks separating general laboratory areas of 152 m2 (500 ft2) or
less from accommodations and control stations shall be of “A-15” class construction.
6) Boundary bulkheads and decks separating general laboratory areas of over 152 m2 (500
ft2) from accommodations and control stations shall be of “A-30” class construction.
7) Furnishings and equipment which are permanently installed in laboratories, such as
desks, file and storage cabinets, waste paper baskets, work benches, chair frames, etc. are
to be constructed of noncombustible materials, in so far as reasonable and practicable.
Working surfaces where chemical stores are used shall be of noncombustible material.
8) Furnishings and equipment temporarily installed to facilitate a specific scientific mission
or used for working surfaces other than chemical stores may be of combustible materials.
9) Equipment installed in chemical storerooms, such as shelves and cabinets shall be
constructed of noncombustible materials.
10) If the vessel is certificated to carry more than 150 persons, laboratories and chemical
storerooms must be considered as type (14) spaces, and the boundary bulkheads must
meet the requirements of SOLAS regulation II-2/9.2.2.3 in lieu of the requirements of
items 1) through 6) of this cite.
11) Shelving must be constructed so as to provide a clear space of at least 102 mm (4 in)
between the bottom shelf and the deck.
Cite: B-6 Structural Fire Protection- Integral Magazines
Bulkheads and decks of integral magazines that are common with storerooms or workshops shall
be of “A-15” construction. Flush constructions shall be used where practicable.
Cite: B-7 Segregation of Chemical Laboratories and Chemical Storerooms
1) Chemical storerooms shall not be located in horizontal proximity to nor below

accommodation or safety areas.
2) Chemical storerooms shall not be located adjacent to the collision bulkhead, nor
boundary divisions of the boiler room, engine room, galley or other high fire hazard area.
3) Chemical laboratories shall not be located adjacent to nor immediately below safety
areas. Whenever possible, they shall be similarly separated from accommodation spaces
and high fire hazard areas such as the galley.
4) Access doors shall be labeled “Scientific Laboratory,” “Chemical Laboratory” or
“Chemical Storeroom” in Red or White 3 inch Block type letters.
Cite: B-8 Construction and Location of Integral Magazines
1) Integral magazines shall be of permanent watertight construction located below the

freeboard deck and where practicable below the waterline.
2) Magazines shall not be located in horizontal proximity to or below accommodation
spaces.
3) Magazines shall not be located adjacent to the collision bulkhead, nor in bearing with the
bulkhead forming the boiler room, engine room, galley, or other high fire hazard area
boundary. If necessary to construct the magazine in proximity of these areas, a cofferdam
X-2
space of at least 0.61 m (2 ft) shall be provided between the bulkhead or deck involved
and the magazine. Such a cofferdam shall be provided with suitable ventilation and shall
not be used for storage purposes.
4) Access doors to magazines shall be of watertight construction, provided with means of
locking and shall be labeled “Magazine” “Keep Open Lights and Fire Away” “Keep
Door Closed” “Remove Matches and Lighters Prior to Entering” in Red or White 3 inch
Block type letters.
5) Racks, stanchions, battens, and other devices must be installed in the magazine to provide
rigid and safe stowage of explosives.
Cite: B-10 Deck Covering for Chemical Storerooms and Laboratories
In chemical storerooms and in laboratories where chemicals will be commonly used, the deck
shall be of nonskid material suitably resistant to chemical spills with provisions to contain and
remove chemical spills.
Cite: B-11 Deck/Shell Covering for Integral Magazines
1) Decks shall be covered with a permanent non-slip, non-spark covering.

2) Noncombustible thermal insulation shall be installed on shell and unsheathed weather
decks that form boundaries of magazine spaces to prevent condensation of moisture.
3) Tank tops that form the magazine deck shall be insulated with an approved deck covering
to prevent condensation of moisture. Tank top manholes shall not be installed in
magazines.
Cite: B-12 Ventilation Systems for Chemical Storerooms and Chemical Laboratories
1) Exhaust type power ventilation system shall be installed which has a capacity sufficient
to effect a complete change of air in not more than 4 minutes based on volume of
compartment.
2) Power ventilation units shall have non-sparking impellers and shall not produce a source
of vapor ignition in either the compartment or the ventilation system associated with the
compartment.
3) System shall be independent of any other ventilation system, serve no other space in
vessel and be of watertight construction.
4) Controls for the power ventilation shall be conveniently located and marked to clearly
identify the purpose of control.
5) Ventilation exhaust outlets shall terminate more than 1.8 m (6 ft) from any opening to the
interior part of the vessel and from any possible source of vapor ignition.
6) Chemical storerooms shall comply with the following additional requirements:
a. Vent inlets to exhaust ducts shall be provided and located at points where
concentration of vapors may be expected.
b. Terminals of vents shall be fitted with flame screens.
c. Provisions shall be made so that the storeroom is ventilated prior to entry including an
indicator outside the space to show that ventilation is being provided and, in addition,
the storeroom shall be marked “Danger-Ventilate Before Entering”
X-3
7) Chemical laboratories shall comply with the following additional requirements:

a. Ventilation system must serve the entire laboratory so that same may be used in event
of spills or other emergencies.
b. Power ventilation system shall be interlocked with any other ventilation or air
conditioning system serving the laboratory to prevent circulation of vapors to other
spaces.
c. Ventilation of air conditioning systems shall be designed so that air cannot be re-
circulated into an accommodation space.
d. Suitably installed fume hood equipped with independent power exhaust ventilator
shall be provided for any operations, reactions or experiments which produce toxic,
noxious or corrosive vapors. Fume hood vent shall be compatible with laboratory
ventilation to prevent fumes from backing-up within the fume hood system and shall
terminate so as to prevent fumes from entering other portions of vessel. Terminals of
vents shall be fitted with flame screens.
Cite: B-13 Ventilation Requirements for Integral Magazines
1) Natural or mechanical ventilation shall be provided with sufficient capacity to maintain

the magazine temperature below 37.8° C (100° F) with 31.1° C (88° F) weather air.
Mechanical cooling may be used where ventilation requirements exceed 1,500 cubic feet
per minute.
2) Vent systems shall be of watertight construction, serve no other space and be provided
with metal watertight closures for use when system is not in use.
3) Weather cowls shall be provided with a double layer of wire screen not less than 1/8”
mesh.
4) To prevent pressure build up, a 2 inch IPS bypass with check valve shall be provided in
parallel with at least one of the vent closures.
Cite: B-14 Piping and Electrical Requirements for Chemical Storerooms
1) Piping systems or similar arrangements are not permitted for the transfer of chemical
stores between a storeroom and the area in which chemical stores are used.
2) Piping, electrical equipment and wiring shall not be installed within or pass through the
storeroom except as required for storeroom itself.
3) Electrical installations must comply with requirements for hazardous areas – Class I,
Division 1, Group C.
Cite: B-15 Electrical Requirements for Chemical Laboratory
Electrical installations located within 457 mm (18 in) of the deck of the laboratory must comply
with the requirements for hazardous areas-Class I, Division 2.
Cite: B-16 Electrical Requirements for Integral Magazines
1) Light fixtures shall be of an approved type fitted with globes and guards.
2) Controls of the lighting system shall be from a location outside the magazine with an
indicator light provided at the switch location to show when lighting circuits are
energized.
X-4
3) Other electrical equipment and wiring must not be installed within or pass through the
magazine.
4) Electrical cables enclosed in a watertight trunk are permitted.
Cite: B-17 Flushing System for Chemical Storerooms and Laboratories
1) Provisions shall be made for flushing away chemical spills.

2) Working spaces in which chemical stores are used shall be equipped with fresh water
supply shower.
3) If a drainage system is installed, it shall be separate from any other drainage system.
Cite: B-18 Piping Systems for Integral Magazines
The only piping allowed, other than piping required for magazine itself, within or passing
through magazine is as follows:
1) Fresh and salt water service piping and drainage system may be routed through
magazines.
2) Other piping systems enclosed in watertight trunk.
Cite: B-19 Fire Extinguishing System for Magazines
Sprinkler system shall be installed in each magazine or magazine group.
1) System shall be manual control, hydraulic control or automatic and shall be remotely
operable from a control station on the freeboard deck and manually operable at the
control valve location. Control Valve shall be in general accordance with Spec. MIL-V-
17501.
2) Automatic type systems shall have sprinkler head of the open head design to permit either
manual or automatic operation.
3) System designs shall be based on minimum total system capacity of 0.8 gallons per
minute per square foot of overhead area.
4) Vessel fire pump may be used if sprinkling system shall not interfere with simultaneous
use of fire main.
5) Control locations for sprinkler system shall be labeled “MAGAZINE SPRINKLER
CONTROL”
Cite: B-20 Firemain
Sufficient number of hose streams must be immediately available from the firemain at all times
by either of the following methods:
1) Maintain water pressure on firemain by continuous operation of:

a. One fire pump, or
b. A suitable pump capable of supplying one hose stream at pitot tube pressure of not
less than 3.45 bar (50 psi), or
c. Pressure tank capable of supplying one hose stream at pitot tube pressure of not less
than 3.45 bar (50 psi) for five minutes.
X-5
d. An audible alarm must be installed in continuously manned space to sound if pressure

of firemain drops to less than necessary to maintain minimum pitot tube pressure.
2) Remote activation and control of one fire pump
a. If fire pump is in continuously manned space, remote controls for pump and all
necessary valves must be located at manned operating platform.
b. If fire pump is in an unmanned machinery space, remote controls for pump and all
necessary valves must be located in:
1. Fire control station, if any
2. Navigation bridge, or
3. Readily accessible space acceptable to OCMI.
Cite: B-21 Fire Hydrants and Hose
If nozzles are provided that accept low velocity water spray applicators, a low-velocity water
spray applicator must be installed in way of at least one length of fire hose on each fire hydrant
outside and in the immediate vicinity of each laboratory.
Cite: B-22 Fixed Fire Suppression System
A USCG Type Approved Fixed Fire Suppression System ( carbon dioxide or clean agent) shall
be installed in all chemical storage areas. The system shall be capable of automatic activation.
Cite: B-23 Portable Fire Extinguishers
One dry chemical and one carbon dioxide C-II Type portable fire extinguisher must be installed
in each chemistry laboratory, scientific laboratory and chemical storeroom for each 27.9 m2 (300
ft2) or fraction thereof, as well as one of each kind located in vicinity of the exit of same.
Cite: B-24 Hazardous Materials and Explosives
Oceanographic research vessels shall comply with detailed requirements of 46 CFR Part 194 for
stowage, labeling, handling, use, and control of explosives and other hazardous materials.
http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_08/46cfr194_08.html
Cite: B-25 Explosive Handling Plan
a) It shall be the responsibility of the master to have prepared, signed, and prominently
posted in conspicuous locations, operating procedures, plans, and safety precautions for
all operations involving the use of explosives.
b) The operating procedures referred to in paragraph (a) of this section shall include and set
forth the special duties and stations of appropriate qualified persons for various
operations involving the use of explosives. Assignment of such persons shall be
commensurate with their experience and training.
c) A copy of the operating procedures, plans and safety precautions required by paragraph
(a) of this section and all subsequent changes or revisions shall be forwarded to the
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, issuing the certificate of inspection for review.
X-6
Cite: B-26 Magazine Vans and Magazine Chests
1) Magazine vans and magazine chests carried on oceanographic research vessels shall meet
the arrangement, construction, stowage, labeling, ventilation and fire protection system-
sprinkler system requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 194.10
2) Magazine vans are subject to normal plan submission procedures and initial construction
inspection.
Cite: B-27 Portable Vans and Tanks
1) Portable vans and tanks, including temporary structures, which may be carried on
oceanographic research vessels shall meet the design, construction, stowage and labeling
requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 195.11:
2) Accommodation, power and chemical stores vans are subject to normal plan submission
procedures and initial and periodic inspection.
Cite: B-28 Weight Handling Gear
1) Weight handling gear installed on an oceanographic research vessel, with the exception
of gear for lifesaving equipment, shall be certified in accordance with the ABS “Guide
for the Certification of Lifting Appliances” as appropriate for the type of weight handling
gear provided.
2) As an alternative, evidence of approval by the International Cargo Gear Bureau may be
submitted.
Cite: B-29 Fire Axes
Each vessel must carry at least the number of fire axes as shown in the table below and these
must be distributed throughout the spaces available to persons on board to be readily available in
case of emergency.
Regulatory gross tons

Over Not over Number of axes
50 1
50 200 2
200 500 4
500 1,000 6
1,000 8
X-7
U. S. Supplement Section XI
XI. GUIDANCE AND REFERENCES
USPHS (Application of PHS Publication No. 393)
Reference 1 (Note: For information only; USCG and Class have no requirements or
involvement; see below how PHS 393 applies to U.S. Flag.)
A. The ship must meet the definition of “vessel” in Section 1250.3(m) of Title 21 of the
Code of Federal Regulations (21 CFR 1250.3(m)):
Any passenger-carrying, cargo, or towing vessel exclusive of:
(1) fishing boats including those used for shell-fishing

(2) tugs which operate only locally in specific harbors and adjacent waters
(3) barges without means of self-propulsion
(4) construction-equipment boats and dredges, and
(5) sand and gravel dredging and handling boats”
The “PHS-393” USPHS/FDA Handbook on Sanitation of Vessel Construction applies to

U.S. flagged conveyances that meet the “vessel” definition and operate in “interstate
traffic” as defined in 21 CFR 1250.3(h) in B. below. Inspection and vessel blueprint
review is done at the discretion of the FDA district office where the shipyard is located or
the headquarters office of the vessel owner/operator is located depending on available
resources.
Location of the appropriate FDA district office may be found at the following web
address: http://www.fda.gov/ora/inspect_ref/iom/iomoradir.html#orafield.
B. In order to fall under FDA jurisdiction the ship must operate in “interstate traffic” as
defined in 21 CFR 1250.3(h): “ The movement of any conveyance or the transportation
of persons or property, including any portion of such movement or transportation which
is entirely within a state or possession (i) from a point of origin in any state or possession
to a point of destination in any other state or possession, or (ii) between a point of origin
and a point of destination in the same state or possession but through any other state,
possession or contiguous foreign country.” There are certain exclusions that apply to this
definition.
C. USPHS Handbook on Sanitation apply to U.S. flagged vessels that meet the “vessel” and
“interstate traffic” requirements and the following kind of documents are to be submitted
to the appropriate FDA office:
Blueprints, sketches, and specifications of the following areas are usually needed:
(1) General Plan – Inboard and Outboard Profiles
(2) Deck by deck layout showing all spaces
(3) Layouts of all food spaces includes galleys, pantries, bell boxes, dining areas,
lounges, bars, dry provisions rooms, walk-in refrigerators and freezers, thaw
XI - 1
U. S. Supplement Section XI
rooms, all other food preparation, service and storage rooms, garbage handling
room, trash incineration rooms, etc. showing location of food service equipment
(4) Book of food service equipment specifications for all food spaces with model
number, manufacturer’s name and address, pictures, sketches
(5) Diagram and drawings of potable water system showing locations of sea chests,
evaporators, RO devices, tanks, chlorinators, chlorine analyzers, service outlets,
backflow preventers, etc.
(6) Lists of backflow preventers and where used in the potable water system as well
as a specification sheet for each kind of backflow preventer.
(7) Operator’s manuals and specification sheets for potable water evaporators and
reverse osmosis equipment
(8) Diagrams and specifications for all pools and spas showing water supply,
overflow scuppers, drains, drain piping, backflow preventers
(9) Specification sheets for marine sanitation devices and sewage holding tanks with
IMO/USCG specification numbers
(10) Diagram showing location of all overboard discharges for the sewage system
(11) Black water system drawings
(12) Grey water and plumbing drains drawings
(13) Sketch of air handling units in AC/fan rooms showing inspection ports and access
for cleaning (for passenger vessels)
D. Contact the appropriate FDA district office to set up inspections.
XI - 2
U. S. Supplement Section XII
XII. RECORD OF REVISIONS
ABS Mission Statement and Quality Policy Nov. 1, 1999

ABS Mission Statement and Quality Policy updated.
Introduction Nov. 1, 1999

Updated to indicate inclusion of Subchapter H. Also
added applicability criteria for Supplement.
Section I Nov. 1, 1999

1/1.7.1 New cite to clarify requirements for cargo gear.
3/3.3.1 New cite to clarify intact stability requirements.
4/5C7 Cite revised to update references to cable construction

standards.
4/6.15 Cite revised to update requirements for valves

employing resilient material based on changes.
4/6.71.1 New cite to clarify that arrangements permitted by this

Rule are not acceptable on U.S. flag vessels.
Clarification added regarding need for remote operation
of cargo tank valves.
4/6.72.3 New cite to clarify that arrangements permitted by this

Rule are not acceptable on U.S. flag vessels.
4/6.72.12 Item b revised to clarify the minimum sizing for the

word “VAPOR.” Item g also revised to clarify the
requirement for oxygen measurements.
4/8.9.6 New cite to clarify that full follow-up control is

required for steering gear.
4/9.7 Cite revised to clarify material requirements.
4/11.1.4 Cite revised to clarify requirements for Design

Verification and Periodic Safety tests.
4/11.3.5b Cite revised to clarify requirement for safety systems.
4/11.5.1 Cite revised to clarify sensor requirements for closed

loop propulsion control systems.
XII - 1
4/11.7.6 Cite revised to indicate minimum restoration period for

standby and 4/11.9.5 electric power for U.S. flag
vessels.
5/2A.1.1.7 Updated cite to indicate USCG approval for high

velocity vent valves. Additionally, required approval
for pressure vacuum valves clarified.
5/4A.5.1 Updated cite to indicate that safety relief valves for

liquefied compressed gas service are to be USCG
approved. Additionally, required approval for cargo
containment systems and piping systems carrying
nitrogen clarified.
5/5.27 New cite addressing sprinkler systems for passenger

vessels.
Section II Nov. 1, 1999

General Revised to reflect USCG policy for acceptance of fire
suppression and detection equipment under ACP.
II-2/4.7.2 Cite revised to clarify hydrant and hose arrangements.
II-2/4.8.4 Cite revised to clarify required approval for nozzles.
II-2/5 Cite revised to clarify required approval for fixed gas

extinguishing systems.
II-2/6 Cite revised to clarify required approval for fire

extinguishers.
II-2/7 Cite revised to clarify fire detection and fire-

extinguishing requirements for incinerator spaces.
II-2/12 Cite revised to indicate requirement for sprinkler

systems to comply with NFPA 13.
II-2/13 Cite revised to eliminate the battery capacity

requirements as USCG requirements were harmonized
with SOLAS. Additionally, cite was revised to clarify
required approval for fixed fire detection and alarm
systems.
II-2/61 Cite revised to clarify required approval for fixed foam

systems.
Section III Nov. 1, 1999
XII - 2
C New cite addressing requirement for ventilation of

passenger spaces.
33 CFR 155.380 New cite added to clarify approval requirement for

pollution equipment.


33 CFR 159 Cite revised to clarify requirements for MSDs.
Section IV Nov. 1, 1999

Check Sheets for Surveys After Construction updated.
Section V Nov. 1, 1999

New Construction Survey Check Sheet updated.
Introduction Jan. 1, 2002

Revised applicability criteria for Supplement; i.e., Item
F regarding Automation deleted – see Cite 4-9-1/1.
Section 1 Jan. 1, 2002

General Cite references in the Table of Contents revised to
agree with the 2002 Edition of the Steel Vessels Rules.
4-8-3/9 First paragraph following Demand Load Table revised

to reflect USCG acceptance of IEC 92-350 series
cables.
4-8-4/27 First paragraph revised to clarify that either NEC or

IEC standards for installations in hazardous areas may
be followed; i.e., it is not necessary to comply with
both.
4-9-1/1 New cite to clarify automation requirements by basing

the criteria on the level of manning intended for the
propulsion machinery space.
4-9-3/1, 4-9-3/3, New cites providing additional USCG requirements

4-9-3/9 & which supplement ABS ACC requirements.
4-9-3/15.5.1
4-9-3/15.5.2 Cite revised to include additional USCG requirements

for fire pump control and pressure monitoring. Also
made applicable for ACC.
XII - 3
6/5.5 (PVG) Cite revised to make reference to the ABS Passenger

Vessel Guide.
Section II Jan. 1, 2002

II-2/4.7.2 Cite revised to clarify that for hydrants using a Siamese
connection only one hose will be required for the
station to agree with USCG requirements.
II-2/5.2 Requirement addressing release time for CO2 system

deleted as it is not applicable to cargo spaces and the
machinery space requirement is covered by SOLAS.
II-2/12 Cite revised to clarify that compliance with SOLAS and

NFPA 13 required with the higher standard prevailing.
VI 6.1 & Cites III/48 and III/48.2 revised to reflect SOLAS

VI 6.1.2.8 Amendment creating the LSA Code.
(LSA Code)
Section III Jan. 1, 2002

B.6(m) Deleted as the requirement for open front toilet seat is
no longer in CFR.
Section VI Jan. 1, 2002

III/21 Regulation number of Cite III/20 changed to III/21 per
SOLAS Amendments.

SOLAS Amendments.
III/22.3 Regulation number of Cite III/21.3 changed to III/22.3

per SOLAS Amendments.
III/22.4.1.2 Regulation number of Cite III/21.4.2.2 changed to

III/22.4.1.2 per SOLAS Amendments.

SOLAS Amendments.
Section II Nov. 1, 2002

II/44 Added Regulation 44 to agree with the USCG “A60”
Construction for space around the emergency source of
power.
Sections IV and V Nov. 1, 2002

Revised Check Sheets ACP CS, SS, ES and NCS.
XII - 4
Introduction Mar. 10, 2003

Introduction-1 Revised Title to reflect applicability to include vessels
certificated for international voyages.
Introduction-2 Revised applicability of Supplement.
Introduction-3 Expanded guidance regarding equivalency evaluation.

Correction of Chapter 32 to 9.
Introduction-4 Re-Flagging wording revised to reflect requirements.
Introduction-5 Reportable Casualty re-paragraphed.
Section I Mar. 10, 2003

Cite 3-3-1/3.1 Revised intact stability to include vessels for re-
flagging.
Cite 3-3-1/3.3 Cargo vessels over 80 meters are considered new and
must meet the probabilistic damage stability regulation
when changing to U.S. flag.
Section II Mar. 10, 2003

II-2/4.7.2 Revised from one hose to two hoses.
Section III Mar. 10, 2003

33 CFR 151.27 Added Pages III-ii, III-12, III-15 Shipboard oil
pollution Emergency Plan requirements.
Section I Apr. 22, 2003

Deleted cites 4-8-2/7, 9, 7.13, 11.5; 4-8-3/5.3.2, 5.5.1,
5.3.6, 9, 9.1; 4-8-4/27; 5-1-7/31.
Revised cite 4-8-3/5.5.4 reference to Main AC

Switchboard deleted.
Section II Apr. 22, 2003

Entire section “General, Equipment Approvals”
replaced.
New section added “Fire Equipment and

Arrangements.”
Added approval series 160.175, 160.176, 161.110,

deleted ****.
Deleted 161.010; II-2/5.2 revised last to paragraphs

relative to the SOLAS Reg. 10.4.1.1.1 and 20.6.1.1.
XII - 5
Under “Carbon Dioxide Storage” deleted last sentence;

under “Fire Extinguishers” replaced approved with
type-approved.
Cite II-2/10 First sentence rewritten for clarity.
Revised Cite II-2/28 to 13 and changed cites in

wording.
Cite II-2/37.1.3 to 20.6, Cite II-2/37.1.3 and II-

2/37.1.6.3 to 20.6 and 20.3.1.3 as per SOLAS 2000
Amendments.
II-2/45 changed .087 radius to 50 degrees.
Cite II-2/56.6 deleted since part of SOLAS.
Section III Apr. 22, 2003

Cite III-4 original wording replaced with new
paragraphs.
Revised Cite III-17 to 18, cite III-27.3 to 32.3 added

/inserted for each person and regardless if it has totally
enclosed lifeboats.
Revised Cite III/41 to 33; revised cite III/34 LSA Code

6.1.2.9, 6.1.2.
Revised, corrected and clarified as per USCG letter

dated
May 14, 2003.
General Equipment Approval changed Union to

Community, MarED to MED.
Cite: III/4 160.115 added “if winches for Rescue

Boats***.”
Cite: III/4 160.132 added “if davits for Rescue

Boats***.”
General May 20, 2003

Changed date on Front Page from January 1 to
June 1. Added USCG approval date June 9, 2003.
Section II May 20, 2003

Made site corrections II-2/44 to 9.2.3.3, II-2/45 to 13,
II-2/61 to 10.4 and FSS Code C Chapter 14.
XII - 6
General Jan. 3, 2007

Revised applicable to the latest Rules, Standards,
Special Decisions, Reporting.
Introduction Jan. 3, 2007

Revised how to handle Form 835, revised authorization
relative to SOLAS exemptions, drydock inspection for
passenger vessels, editorial and clarifications, USPHS
application requirements, supplemental reporting,
added gas/chemical carrier details. New added
Subchapter L cargo vessels, oil recovery vessels,
oceanography research vessels.
Section I Jan. 3, 2007

Revised 4-3-4/1, 4-8-3/5.5.4, 4-6-2/5.9; added cite
5-8-1/1 and 5-9-1/1, 4-8-2/5.19, 7.4 7.7, 4-8-4/21.1.6.
Section II Jan. 3, 2007

Deleted cite III/32.3 covered by the Rules, added new
“Table Navigating Equipment”; revised cite II/10.3,
II-2/10.5.4, II/10.5.4, II/10.6; added cite II-2/9.2.3.1,
revised Table concerning SOLAS Equipment, added
Pilot Ladder.
Section III Jan. 3, 2007

Added Annex VI, Incinerator. Added reference to
USPHS.
Section VI Jan. 3, 2007

Revised Survey Check Sheets; revised Cite II-1/8,
added 46 CFR 63.25-9.
Section VIII Jan. 3, 2007

New references added for information only.
Section VIII to X Aug. 22, 2008

Renumbered sections: VII is IBC Code, VIII is IGC
Code, IX is References and X is Records. Incorporated
editorial comments.
Sections All Aug. 22, 2008

Incorporated USCG comments 23 March 2008. Revised
all headers to match SOLAS Regulations and the FSS
code.
Introduction Aug. 22, 2008
XII - 7
Added Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV’s) over 90

meters in length.
Introduction Mar. 10, 2009

New and revised headings: Introduction, Procedures,
Form 835 CG, Dry Docking, Supplemental Reporting,
Renumbering, etc., Incorporated USCG comments
dated 23 February 2009.
Sections I, II, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI Mar. 10, 2009
Section I Editorial, Index, 3-3-1/3.1, 4-4-1/1, 4-6-3, 4-8-2/3.1,
4-8-2/5.13, 4-8-2/9.17.5, 4-8-3/9.1, 4-8-3/13, 4-9-2/5,
4-8-2/3.11, 5C-1-7/31
Section II Editorial, Index, II-1/45.11, II-2/7.4, II-2/10.4.1.1.3,

II-2/10.6
Section III Editorial, ANNEX II, VI
Section VI II-1/8 deleted, II-2/13
Section VII Editorial, Chapters 3, 5, 10, 19
Section VIII Editorial, Chapters 4, 10, 17
Section IX New Chapter “Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV’s) > 90

Meters in Length.
Section X Guidance and References ( USPHS)
Sections I to XI Apr. 4, 2009

Sections I to XI Incorporated USCG comments dated 23 February, 1, 2
and 6 April 2009
Sections I, III, IX, XI Apr. 13, 2009

Section IX Deleted Cites A13, A14 and A15 in lieu of A11,
Editorial.
Mar. 28, 2011

General Revised, incorporating USCG Comments dated
03/01/2011.
Section I-3 Last paragraph to 4-6-2/5.11 deleted. Last sentence to

4-6-3 replaced. Last paragraph to 4-7-3/1 replaced.
Section I-14 Added note to 6/6.5 relative to the highest standard to

be used.
XII - 8
Section VI-2 Wording in II-2/20.6 replaced with IMO wording.

Removed last sentence from Cite II-2/13 removed
“new”, removed second sentence and added SOLAS
reference. II-2/17 Complete wording replaced.
Section X-7 B-22 Wording replaced with that of USCG.
Section II-6 Editorial, added Chapter 1 to Cite II-2/9.3.1.
Section II-9 Editorial to II-2/19 conversion to SI Units.
Section VI Added MSC PRG reference.
Section I Replaced wording from 2003 ACP.
Section VI II-2/7.2 Added wording relative to interference.
Section VI-3 Replaced wording of first sentence under piping in II-

2/20.6.
Section VI-5 Deleted Cite III/21, updated reference to latitude.
Section VI-6 Deleted Cites III/22.3 and III/23, added to III/22.4.1.2

on exposure suit.
XII - 9

Abs Rules For Vessels in International Trade

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What is the mission statement of the American Bureau of Shipping?

What is the mission statement of the American Bureau of Shipping?

What are the main sections covered in the document?

What are the main sections covered in the document?

U.S.

ABS RULES FOR STEEL VESSELS FOR

AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING

USCG Approval: 3 May 2011 (16711/ABS)

It is the policy of the American Bureau of Shipping to be responsive to the

We commit to operate consistent with applicable environmental legislation and

II. SOLAS INTERPRETATIONS NOT ADDRESSED BY ABS RULES

III. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS NOT CONTAINED IN ABS RULES,

IV. SURVEYS AFTER CONSTRUCTION

V. SURVEYS DURING CONSTRUCTION

VI. PASSENGER VESSELS – SOLAS INTERPRETATIONS

VII. IBC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

VIII. IGC CODE SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

IX. REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS (OSV’s)

X REQUIREMENTS FOR OCEANOGRAPHIC RESEARCH VESSELS

XI. GUIDANCE AND REFERENCES

XII. RECORD OF REVISIONS

E. Issued and maintains a valid Certificate of Documentation (US Flag)

The Supplement is divided into twelve sections:

Section X contains additional requirements that apply to Subchapter U (Research Vessels).

Section XI contains guidance and references.

PROCEDURES FOR ENROLLMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN ACP

HAND OVER SURVEY

WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION?

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE VESSEL IS DAMAGED?

to fixed fire-extinguishing systems, life-saving appliances, auxiliary power generating

HOW TO HANDLE THE FORM CG 835

OUTSTANDING RECOMMENDATIONS (OSR)

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SPECIAL SURVEYS MUST BE EXTENDED?

UNDER WATER SURVEY IN LIEU OF DRYDOCKING

DRYDOCKING INSPECTION INTERVALS FOR PASSENGER VESSELS

I. SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS TO CURRENT ABS RULES

Cite: 1-1-5/1 Other Regulations – General I-1

Cite: 3-3-1/3.1 Intact Stability I-1

Cite: 3-3-1/3.3 Damage Stability I-1

Cite: 4-3-4/13 Steering Gear – Control Systems I-1

Cite: 4-3-4/15 Steering Gear – Instrumentation and Alarms I-1

Cite: 4-6-2/5.11 Piping Systems – Metallic Piping – Valves I-2

Cite: 4-6-3 Piping Systems – Plastic Piping I-3

Cite: 4-7-3/1 Fire Safety Systems – Fire-Extinguishing Systems and

Cite: 4-8-2/3.11 Electrical Systems – System Design – System Arrangement I-3

Cite: 4-8-2/5.9.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Sources of

Cite: 4-8-2/5.13 Electrical Systems – System Design – Emergency Switchboard I-4

Cite: 4-8-2/5.19 Electrical Systems – System Design – Alarms and Safeguards –

Cite: 4-8-2/7.1 Electrical Systems – System Design – Cable Sizing I-4

Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.1 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication System Design –

Cite: 4-8-2/11.5.3 Electrical Systems – Interior Communication I-6

Cite: 4-8-2/9.17.5 Electrical Systems – Electrical Design – Protection of Steering

Cite: 4-8-3/5.5.4 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment – Emergency

Cite: 4-8-3/9.1 Electrical Systems – Electrical Equipment – Cables I-7

Cite: 4-8-3/13 Electrical Systems –Electrical Equipment – Certified Safe

Cite: 4-9-1/7 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General – Required

Cite: 4-9-1/5.1.10 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – General – Safety

Cite: 4-9-2/1&3 Remote Propulsion Control and Automation – Remote Propulsion