Regulacje i polityka gospodarcza · 15.11.1999

Frequency of Inspection, Alternate Hull Examination Program for Certain Passenger Vessels, and Underwater Surveys for Passenger, Nautical School, and Sailing School Vessels

The Coast Guard proposes amending its vessel inspection regulations. These amendments would introduce a 5-year Certificate of Inspection cycle in accordance with the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1996 to harmonize our inspections with most internationally required certificates. The proposed rule would also establish hull examination alternatives and a drydock extension procedure for qualifying passenger vessels. Qualifying vessels must operate exclusively in fresh water, on restricted routes, and in low risk environments. In addition, the proposed rule would provide the option of alternating drydock examinations with underwater surveys for passenger, nautical school, and sailing school vessels. This rulemaking is necessary for the following reasons: to align inspection schedules with international protocols; to establish an examination process giving industry additional latitude in scheduling inspections; and to create a parity between passenger vessels and all other Coast Guard-inspected vessels. The Coast Guard expects this proposed rule to result in a reduction in the time and paperwork associated with Coast Guard vessel inspections and examinations.