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

In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:

Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.

Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) means a composite structural material formed by electrical-grade glass fibers in Coast Guard accepted catalyst activated resin.

Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the “condition B” weight.

Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.

Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of persons. This is also known as the “condition A” weight.

Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.

Positive Stability means the condition of a lifeboat such that when it is displaced a small amount in any direction from upright, it returns on its own to the position before displacement.

SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.

(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.

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

(1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 36”).

(2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 276”).

(3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 313”).

(4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 314”).

(5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-11, and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 653”).

(6) ASTM B 127-05 (Reapproved 2009), Standard Specification for Nickel-Copper Alloy (UNS N04400) Plate, Sheet, and Strip, (approved October 1, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 127”).

(7) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 209”).

(8) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 638”).

(9) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 970”).

(10) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM D 2584”).

(11) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM D 4029”).

(12) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“ASTM F 1166”).

(c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.

(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“FED-STD-595C”).

(2) [Reserved]

(d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.

(1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“IMO Res. 658(16)”).

(2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).

(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-3, 160.135-7, and 160.135-13.

(4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-13, and 160.135-15.

(5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).

(6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.135-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).

(e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 Geneve 20, Switzerland.

(1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics—Determination of tensile properties, part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 527”).

(2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics—Prepregs, moulding compounds and laminates—Determination of the textile-glass and mineral-filler content—Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 15, 1996), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ISO 1172”).

(3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites—Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 14125”).

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

(1) A-A-55308, Commercial Item Description, Cloth And Strip, Laminated Or Coated, Vinyl Nylon Or Polyester, High Strength, Flexible, (May 13, 1997), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15. (“A-A-55308”).

(2) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“MIL-C-19663D”).

(3) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“MIL-P-17549D(SH)”).

(4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for § 160.135-11,

(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, a manufacturer must comply with, and each lifeboat must meet, the requirements of the following—

(1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;

(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/6 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;

(3) 46 CFR part 159; and

(4) This subpart.

(b) Each lifeboat must meet the following requirements:

(1) Design. (i) Each lifeboat, other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion suits.

(ii) Each lifeboat should be designed following standard human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166.

(2) Visibility from operator's station. (i) The operator's station must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control station, has visibility 360 degrees around the lifeboat, with any areas obstructed by the lifeboat structure or its fittings visible by moving the operator's head and torso.

(ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the speed of the lifeboat, must be able to see the water—

(A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (9 ft, 10 in) of each side of the lifeboat;

(B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the lifeboat; and

(C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for recovering persons from the water.

(iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or docking operations, a hatch must be provided so that the operator can stand with his or her head outside the lifeboat for increased visibility, provided the operator can still steer and control the speed of the lifeboat.

(3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each lifeboat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.

(i) General. Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.

(ii) Steel. Sheet steel and plate must be low carbon, commercial quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653, coating designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Structural steel plates and shapes must be carbon steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or an equivalent or superior steel accepted by the Commandant. All steel products, except corrosion resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high quality zinc coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine environment. Corrosion resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313 or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) or another corrosion resistant stainless steel of equal or superior corrosion resistant characteristics.

(iii) Aluminum. Aluminum and aluminum alloys must conform to ASTM B 209 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) and be high purity for good marine corrosion resistance, free of iron, and containing not more than 0.6 percent copper.

(iv) Fiber Reinforced Plastic.

(A) Resin. Any resin used for the hull, canopy, hatches, rigid covers, and enclosures for the engine, transmission, and engine accessories, must be fire retardant and accepted by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.120.

(B) Glass reinforcement. Any glass reinforcement used must have good laminated wet strength retention and must meet the appropriate specification in this paragraph. Glass cloth must be a finished fabric woven from “E” electrical glass fiber yarns meeting ASTM D 4029 commercial style designation 1564 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Woven roving must conform to MIL-C-19663D (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Other glass materials equivalent or superior in strength, design, wet out, and efficiency will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.

(C) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of any finished laminate must present a smooth finish, and there must be no protruding surface fibers, open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles, or blisters. The laminate must be essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no foreign matter must remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate must be fully cured and free of tackiness, and must show no tendency to delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate must not be released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 40-55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the non-gel coated surface, including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate must meet the requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Other grades will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.

(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the lifeboat is constructed or the national body's designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests.

(5) Lifeboat buoyancy. (i) The buoyancy material must be accepted by the Commandant as meeting the performance requirements of the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7, with a density of 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3). The buoyancy foam or lifeboat manufacturer must certify the results of the testing to IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7 and submit those results to the Commandant. A list of accepted buoyancy foams may be obtained from the Commandant upon request and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.

(ii) All voids in the hull and canopy required to provide buoyancy for positive stability and self righting must be completely filled with Coast Guard accepted buoyancy material.

(6) Engines. (i) In order to be accepted by the Commandant, any compression ignition engine fitted to an approved lifeboat must meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements in 40 CFR part 89, part 94, or part 1042, as applicable, and have reports containing the same information as recommended by MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) certified and witnessed by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector or an independent laboratory.

(ii) A hydraulic system, if used to start the engine, must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that—

(A) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and FC332-X are not permitted; and

(B) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 in). Longer, nonmetallic flexible hoses may be allowed in emergency steering systems at the discretion of the Commandant.

(iii) If a hand pump is provided, or if the engine has a manual starting system, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or hand start operation.

(7) Fuel system. (i) The fuel system must meet 46 CFR 56.50-75(b) and, except as specified in this paragraph, the fuel tank must meet 46 CFR 58.50-10.

(ii) Tanks constructed with—

(A) Aluminum must be at least 5 mm (0.20 in) thick of ASTM B 209 or 5086 alloy;

(B) Nickel-copper must be at least 0.9 mm (0.0375 in) thick of ASTM B 127 hot-rolled sheet or plate;

(C) Steel or iron must be at least 1.9 mm (0.0747 in) thick. Diesel tanks of steel or iron must not have interior galvanizing;

(D) Fiberglass reinforced plastic must be at least 5 mm (0.187 in) thick; be sealed against porosity by at least one ply of chopped strand mat; be reinforced in the way of tank openings; be fitted with corrosion-resistant fittings; have each joint at the top of the tank; and have each joint bonded and through-bolted; or

(E) Roto-molded plastic must be at least 5 mm thick; must meet the requirements of 33 CFR 183.510 (a), (b), and (e) regardless of tank capacity; must be able to pass all static pressure tests as required in 33 CFR 183.510 at a minimum pressure of 5 psi; and be fitted with corrosion-resistant fittings.

(iii) Each fuel tank over 0.75 m (30 in) long must be baffled at intervals not exceeding 0.45 m (18 in).

(iv) A fuel level indicator must be provided for each fuel tank.

(v) Any fuel tank vent piping must be at least 6 mm (0.25 in) outside diameter tubing.

(vi) A shut-off valve must be provided at the fuel tank and must not be provided at the fuel pump. The valve must be clearly labeled. The position of the valve must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the lifeboat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the valve, and the words “Fuel Shut-Off Valve” must be in a color that contrasts with their background. The marking must be legible to a person within the vicinity of the engine.

(8) Starting system batteries. Any battery fitted in a totally enclosed lifeboat must be stored in a sealed compartment with exterior venting. If the lifeboat has more than one engine, then only one starting battery is required per engine.

(9) Exhaust. Engine exhaust must be routed away from bilge and potential oil drips. Any paint used on engines, manifolds, or exhaust must not give off fumes when heated. All exhaust lagging must be non-absorbent.

(10) Propeller guard. Each propeller on a lifeboat must be fitted with a propeller guard with a maximum opening of 76 mm (3 in) on all sides on which a person is likely to be exposed.

(11) Control and steering station. The operator's control and steering station must have complete lifeboat lowering and launching, hook release, engine throttle, steering controls, and if applicable, an air system and water spray system.

(i) The throttle must be a continuous manual control and must be able to be set and locked at any position.

(ii) The control and steering station must be designed and laid out in accordance with ASTM F 1166 sections 9 and 10, so that controls and displays are unambiguous, accessible, and easy to reach and use from the operator's normal seated position, while wearing an immersion suit or a lifejacket.

(iii) Each control, gauge, or display must be identified by a marking posted on, above, or adjacent to the respective item. Each control must operate in a logical manner and be marked with an arrow to show direction of movement of control which will cause an increased response. Each gauge must be marked with the normal operating range and indicate danger or abnormal conditions. Each marking must be permanent and weatherproof.

(iv) Gauges, and audio and visual alarms must be provided to monitor at least the following parameters—

(A) Coolant temperature, for a liquid cooled engine;

(B) Oil pressure, for an engine with an oil pump;

(C) Tachometer, for an engine not provided with over-speed protection; and

(D) State of charge, or rate of charge, for each rechargeable engine starting power source.

(12) Hull drain plug. The position of each drain plug must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the lifeboat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the plug, and the words “Drain Plug” must be 76 mm (3 in) high and have letters of a color that contrast with their background. The marking must be clearly visible to a person within the vicinity of the drain plug.

(13) Remote steering. The procedure to change over from remote to local steering must be simple, not require the use of tools, and be clearly posted. There must be sufficient clear space to install, operate, remove, and stow the removable tiller arm. The tiller arm and its connection to the rudder stock must be of sufficient strength so that there is no slippage or bending of the tiller arm. Rudder stops or other means must be provided to prevent the rudder from turning too far on either side.

(14) Lifelines. Buoyant lifelines must be of ultraviolet resistant material.

(15) Rails provided as handholds. Rails provided as handholds to cling when the lifeboat is overturned must extend for half the length of the lifeboat on both sides of the hull, and the clearance between the rail and hull must also be at least 38 mm (1.5 in). The rails must be attached to the hull below the chine or turn of the bilge, must be faired to prevent any fouling, and not project beyond the widest part of the lifeboat.

(16) Storage compartments and collection and storage of rainwater. (i) Each storage compartment must be supported and secured against movement. It must have adequate hand access for removing and storing the required equipment, provisions, or water, and for cleaning the inside of the compartment.

(ii) The rain water collecting device may be incorporated into the design of the canopy or may be a separate unit to be mounted outside the lifeboat. The device must have a projected horizontal area of at least 1 m 2 (10.7 ft 2) collection area and be designed to function unattended.

(iii) Provision must be made to continue to collect water in the storage compartment while drawing water to fill a cup. The compartment must have a means of drainage and adequate access to allow filling the graduated drinking cup required to be carried as part of the lifeboat equipment.

(17) Release mechanism. Each release mechanism must be identified at the application for approval of the prototype lifeboat and must be approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.133. The release lever or control in the lifeboat must be red in color, and the area immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color. An illustrated operating instruction plate or placard showing the correct off-load and emergency on-load release procedure and recovery procedure must be posted so that it is visible and legible from the helmsman's normal operating position. The plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word “Danger”.

(18) Painter release. Any painter release must be located such that the lifeboat operator can readily release the painter from the operator's control and steering station.

(19) Canopy lamp. Any exterior lifeboat position-indicating light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.

(20) Manually-controlled interior light. Any interior light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.

(21) Lifeboat equipment. Each lifeboat must be designed to accommodate and carry the equipment as specified in 46 CFR 199.175.

(22) Oars. Oars are not required on a lifeboat with more than one engine, provided one engine can be operated while the other is disabled.

(23) Bilge pump. Each lifeboat that is not automatically self-bailing must be fitted with a manual bilge pump that meets the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(2). Each such lifeboat with a capacity of 100 persons or more must carry an additional manual bilge pump or an engine-powered bilge pump.

(24) Exterior color. The primary color of the exterior of the canopy and interior of partially enclosed lifeboats visible from the air must be a highly visible color equivalent to vivid reddish orange color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue.

(25) Self-contained air supply system and fire protection system operating instructions. Each compressed gas air cylinder must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 147.60. The cylinders must be accessible for removal and charging in place. Water-resistant instructions for starting the water spray and air supply, if fitted, must be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the system controls.

(26) Navigating lights. Each lifeboat must have navigation lights that are in compliance with the applicable sections of the International and Inland Navigation Rules and meet 46 CFR 111.75-17.

(27) Retroreflective material. The exterior of each lifeboat and its canopy must be marked with Type II retroreflective material approved under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).

(28) Permanently attached foldable canopy. For a partially enclosed lifeboat, the foldable canopy cloth material must meet the specifications for Type II, Class 1 requirements of A-A-55308 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or be accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.

(29) Labels and notices. Any labels, caution and danger notices, and operating, maintenance, or general instructions, must be in accordance with ASTM F 1166, Section 15, in terms of format, content, lettering size and spacing, color, and posted location. They must be illustrated with symbols in accordance with IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), as applicable. Information and instruction plates, not specifically mentioned in this section, must not be posted in the vicinity of the control and steering station without prior approval from the Commandant. Identification label plates, if required, must be posted on or above the component or equipment to be identified.

(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.

(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit in triplicate—

(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision issue, and date;

(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;

(3) Seating arrangement plan, including a dimensioned seat form to scale;

(4) A complete material list, with each material referenced to a U.S. national standard or, if a copy is provided in English, an equivalent international standard;

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

(6) Hull, canopy, and critical parts lay-up schedule for a Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) lifeboat;

(7) Hull and canopy construction drawings, including particulars of joints, welds, seams, and other fabricating details;

(8) Weights and thickness of each major FRP structural component, including the hull, canopy, and inner liners, before outfitting;

(9) Specification and identification of materials such as steel, aluminum, resin, foam, fiberglass, cloth, and plastic used in the lifeboat's manufacture;

(10) Fabrication details for each major structural component, including details of each welded joint;

(11) Lines plans;

(12) Propulsion system specifications and arrangement and installation drawings;

(13) Steering system drawings and specifications;

(14) Release mechanism installation drawings and the mechanism's Coast Guard approval number;

(15) Air and water spray systems drawings and specifications, if installed;

(16) Plans for critical subassemblies;

(17) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;

(18) Electrical system schematics and specifications;

(19) Stability data, including righting arm curves in the light and loaded condition for both intact and flooded stability;

(20) Drawings of all signs and placards, showing actual inscription, format, color, size, and location on the lifeboat;

(21) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed lifeboat, including the light load (condition A) and full load (condition B) weights;

(22) Specifications for the required launching ramp length and angle, and the height of free-fall lifeboat installation above the water;

(23) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart;

(24) A description of the quality control procedures and record keeping that will apply to the production of the lifeboat, which must include but is not limited to—

(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;

(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;

(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication, seams, and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and

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

(25) Full details of any other unique capability;

(26) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the lifeboat complies with the requirements of this subpart;

(27) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the lifeboat will be constructed; and

(28) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 of this subpart.

(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.

(d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—

(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;

(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the lifeboat meets the construction requirements of this subpart;

(3) Accurately depict the proposed lifeboat;

(4) Be internally consistent;

(5) Be legible; and

(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.

(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.

(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.135-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype lifeboat as set forth in this section.

(b) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Prototype inspections and tests of a lifeboat must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional prototype tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.

(c) Fabrication of a lifeboat must proceed in the following sequence:

(1) The manufacturer must arrange for an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (b) of this section) to inspect, test, and oversee the lifeboat during its fabrication and prepare an inspection and test report meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-11.

(2) The independent laboratory must make such inspections as are necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart. By conducting at least one inspection during its construction, the independent laboratory must determine the prototype lifeboat conforms with those plans by inspecting—

(i) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Construction. (A) FRP components of each prototype lifeboat outer hull and any FRP inner hull or liner components that are bonded or bolted to the outer hull must have a layup made of unpigmented clear resins so that details of construction are visible for inspection. Test panels representative of each prototype layup must be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). If an accepted MIL-R-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) Grade B resin is used for the prototype lifeboat, additives for fire retardancy must not be used so that the laminate is translucent for inspection purposes. Any prototype test lifeboat with Grade B resins will not be marked in accordance with § 160.135-17 of this subpart for use as a production lifeboat regardless of the outcome of the performance tests. Whichever accepted resin the manufacturer decides to use for the prototype lifeboat, the same resin must be used in the production lifeboats.

(B) The hull, canopy, and major structural laminates of each prototype FRP lifeboat must be tested for resin content, ultimate flexural strength, and tensile strength. The test samples must be cut out from the prototype lifeboat, or be laid up at the same time, using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and test methods used, must be as per the applicable test specified in this paragraph. The resin content must be determined as per ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The flexural ultimate strength must be determined by ASTM D 790 method I (test condition “A”, flatwise, dry) or the corresponding ISO 14125 test method (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The tensile strength, lengthwise, must be determined as per ASTM D 638 or ISO 527 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).

(C) Each major FRP component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner(s), of each prototype FRP lifeboat must be examined and weighed after it is completed but before it is assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques;

(ii) Steel construction. Steel sheet and plate used for the hull, floors, and other structural components of a prototype steel lifeboat must meet the bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) after galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;

(iii) Coated cloth for partially enclosed lifeboats. Cloth material used in the construction of each prototype lifeboat must be confirmed to have met the requirements specified under § 160.135-7(b)(28) of this subpart. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;

(iv) Welding. Structural components of each prototype lifeboat joined by welding must be welded by the welding procedures and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart and by welders appropriately qualified;

(v) Buoyancy foam. Each major subassembly of a prototype lifeboat, such as the hull with liner and canopy with liner, must be weighed after the buoyancy foam is installed and before it is further assembled;

(vi) Installation of the propulsion system;

(vii) Installation of the steering system; and

(viii) Installation of the water spray fire-protection and air support system(s), if fitted.

(3) The independent laboratory must submit the inspection report to the Commandant.

(a) After the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the prototype lifeboat is in compliance with the requirements of § 160.135-11 of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the prototype approval inspections and tests required under this section. The prototype lifeboat, the construction of which was witnessed under § 160.135-11 of this subpart, must be used for the tests in this section.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.

(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—

(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notification must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;

(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;

(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on lifeboats or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—

(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart and the inspection report under § 160.135-11 of this subpart;

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

(iii) Witnessing tests; and

(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or test; and

(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of lifeboats, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the lifeboats in which such materials were used.

(d) Tests. (1) Prototype lifeboat readiness. All tests must be conducted on a completely outfitted lifeboat, including fixed equipment such as compass, searchlight, and navigating lights. Loose equipment may be substituted by weights.

(2) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) prototype lifeboat lay-up. For the prototype of each design of an FRP lifeboat, the lay-up must be made of unpigmented resins and clear gel coat.

(3) Fuel tank. Each non-portable fuel tank must be tested by a static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.

(4) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype lifeboat of each design must pass each of the tests for davit-launched or free-fall lifeboats, as applicable, described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraphs 6.1 through 6.17 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following modifications:

(i) Fire retardancy/release mechanism and engine tests (Paragraphs 1/6.2, 6.9, 6.10, 6.14). The tests in the following IMO Revised recommendation on testing paragraphs may be accomplished independent of the lifeboat, and may be considered completed and need not be repeated if the tests have been previously shown to meet the necessary requirements—

(A) Paragraph 6.2;

(B) Paragraphs 6.9.3 through 6.9.6;

(C) Paragraph 6.10.2 through 6.10.6; and

(D) Paragraphs 6.14.6 through 6.14.8.

(ii) Lifeboat overload test (Paragraph 1/6.3). For a davit launched lifeboat, the overload test must be conducted with the lifeboat suspended from the lifting hooks. During this test, the canopy of a free-fall lifeboat must not deform so as to harm any potential occupants.

(iii) Impact test (Paragraph 1/6.4). The rigid vertical surface must not be displaced or deformed as a result of the test.

(iv) Lifeboat seating space test (Paragraph 1/6.7). The average mass of persons used to test the lifeboat seating space must be determined by weighing as a group or individually. Each person must wear an inherently buoyant SOLAS lifejacket with at least 150 N of buoyancy or a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket approved under approval series 160.155. For other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, the operator(s) must demonstrate that the lifeboat can be operated while wearing a Coast Guard approved, insulated-buoyant immersion suit approved under approval series 160.171. The Commandant will give consideration to requests to test at, and designate lifeboats for, a heavier occupant weight than that stated in the IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, § 160.135-5 of this subpart).

(v) Flooded stability test (Paragraph 1/6.8). Any materials used to raise the test weights representing the lifeboat occupants above the seat pan must be at least as dense as fresh water.

(vi) Lifeboat operational test, Operation of engine (Paragraph 1/6.10.1). For the 4-hour lifeboat maneuvering period, the lifeboat must not (except for a short period to measure towing force and to demonstrate towing fixture durability) be secured, and must be run through its full range of speeds and full range of all controls throughout the period.

(vii) Survival recovery test (Paragraph 1/6.10.8). The recovery demonstration must show that no more than two crewmembers are required to recover a helpless person of ninety-fifth percentile by weight described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) while the crewmembers and helpless person are each wearing a lifejacket.

(viii) Flooded capsizing test (Paragraph 1/6.14.3-.5). For any lifeboat also approved as a rescue lifeboat, the lifeboat must return to an upright position and, without undue delay, the crew must be able to use the lifeboat again as a lifeboat.

(ix) Fire test (Paragraph 1/6.16.4). The locations where temperatures are measured along with the rationale for the proposed locations must be provided to the Commandant for approval prior to the testing.

(x) Water spray tests (Paragraph 1/6.16.9). The delivery rate of water, or the sprayed water film thickness over the lifeboat, must be at least equivalent to that used to achieve passing results for the fire test. Full coverage must be obtained without the need to rock the lifeboat or induce wetting by wiping or applying any agent.

(xi) Measuring and evaluating acceleration forces (Paragraph 1/6.17.5). For free-fall lifeboats, the selection, placement, and mounting of the accelerometers along with the rationale for the proposed selection, placement, and mounting must be provided to the Commandant for approval prior to the testing.

(xii) Evaluation acceleration forces with the dynamic response model (Paragraph 1/6.17.9). For free-fall lifeboats only, sections 6.17.9 thru 6.17.12 must be used along with the displacement limits for lifeboats in Table 2 under “Evaluation with the dynamic response model”.

(5) Visual inspection. Each lifeboat must be visually inspected to confirm—

(i) Compliance with this subpart;

(ii) Conformance with plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart; and

(iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.

(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a lifeboat identical in construction to smaller and larger lifeboats that have successfully completed the tests. Tests associated with lifeboat components that have already been approved by the Commandant are not required to be repeated.

(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.

(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—

(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and

(2) The final plans of the lifeboat as built. The plans must include, in triplicate—

(i) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart; and

(ii) The final version of the plans required under § 160.135-9 of this subpart.

(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of lifeboats must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.

(b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must—

(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production lifeboats are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype lifeboat approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;

(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;

(3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the following—

(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each lifeboat constructed;

(ii) Name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and

(iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the lifeboat, if known; and

(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the lifeboat are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart;

(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the lifeboat, work or testing is performed on lifeboats or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for the purpose of—

(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;

(ii) Witnessing tests; or

(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and

(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e)(2) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the lifeboats are being made in accordance with the plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.

(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each lifeboat. The records must include—

(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each applicable document listed in § 160.135-5 of this subpart;

(2) A copy of approved plans, documentation, and certifications;

(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved lifeboat;

(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved lifeboats, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the lifeboats in which such materials were used;

(5) Start and finish date and time of the lay-up of each major Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) component such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner and the names of the operator(s);

(6) Start and finish date and time of pouring of foam-in-place rigid buoyancy foam, and name of operator(s);

(7) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);

(8) Records of welder certificates, training and qualifications;

(9) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;

(10) The serial number of each production lifeboat, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and

(11) The original purchaser of each lifeboat and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.

(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved lifeboat to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces lifeboats for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.

(e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved lifeboat must be inspected and tested in accordance with each of the following procedures:

(1) In-process inspections and tests. Each production lifeboat must be examined during lay-up of the hull to verify that the lay-up conforms to the approved drawings. Each FRP major component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner, must be examined and weighed after it is completed but before assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques. Laboratory tests of laminates must be conducted at this time. Test samples must be cut out from the lifeboat itself or be laid up at the same time, using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and test methods used, must be as described in the applicable test specified in this paragraph.

(i) Weight. The weight of each FRP section, such as hull, canopy, and inner liner, must be within 10 percent of similar sections of the prototype lifeboat. These weights must be the bare laminate weights. Backing plates that are molded into the laminate may be included.

(ii) Thickness. The average thickness of each section of sprayed-up laminate must be within 20 percent of the corresponding sections of the prototype.

(iii) Resin content. Laminate samples from the hull, canopy, and inner liners must be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The resin content must be within 8 percentage points of the prototype results. If the resin content does not comply, flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests in paragraph (e)(1)(iv) of this section must be conducted.

(iv) Flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests. Each laminate sample from each major component, such as hull and liner, that does not comply with the resin content requirement in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section, and from each component of every fifth production lifeboat, must be subjected to the flexural ultimate strength and tensile strength tests as described in § 160.135-11(c)(2)(i)(B) of this subpart. The values must be at least 90 percent of the prototype results.

(v) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, each piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that the correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3).

(vi) Steel sheet and plate. Steel sheet and plate for the hull, floors, and other structural components must meet ASTM A 36 and ASTM A 653 as applicable (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Non-corrosive resistant steel must meet the coating mass and bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653. Compliance for this paragraph can be ascertained through supplier's certification papers or through conducting actual tests.

(vii) Cloth. The cloth material used for the construction of each partially enclosed lifeboat must meet the material specification of A-A-55308 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). This compliance can be ascertained through supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests.

(viii) Fuel tank. Each fuel tank must be tested by a static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.

(ix) Welding. It must be determined that structural components joined by welding was performed by welders who are appropriately qualified and that the welding procedure and materials are as per the plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart.

(2) Post assembly tests and inspections. The finished lifeboat must be visually inspected inside and out. The manufacturer must develop and maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all applicable requirements have been met and the lifeboat is equipped in accordance with approved plans. Each production lifeboat of each design must pass each of the tests described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 2, section 5.3 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).

(a) Each lifeboat must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed to the hull in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the lifeboat.

(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.

(c) The plate or label must contain the—

(1) Name and address of the manufacturer;

(2) Manufacturer's model identification;

(3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production test and inspections;

(4) Serial number of the lifeboat;

(5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;

(6) Month and year of manufacture;

(7) Material of hull construction;

(8) Number of persons for which the lifeboat is approved;

(9) Light load and full load (condition A and condition B weight); and

(10) Word “SOLAS.”

(a) Each lifeboat must have instructions and information for the ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the lifeboat.

(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.

(c) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available—

(1) In English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard; and

(2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple procedures and illustrations for operation of the lifeboat. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and must be made of durable material and suitable for display near installations of lifeboats on vessels.

(a) Each lifeboat must have operation and maintenance instructions that—

(1) Follow the general format and content specified in MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart); and

(2) Include a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the lifeboat.

(b) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard.

(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.

(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production lifeboat. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures in § 160.135-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.

(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype lifeboat with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.135-9 through 160.135-13 of this subpart.

(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.