Updated: 21 Sept 1994 Published: 12 November 1993 Enclosure to NVIC 9-93 RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPS ON INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES AND FOR U.S. COMMERCIAL VESSELS IN DOMESTIC SERVICES Current and future requirements for radio lifesaving equipment on commercial vessels are summarized in the following tables. In each case, the source of the requirement is identified in parentheses. All of the requirements listed apply to U.S. vessels. Foreign-flag vessels do not have to comply with any of the requirements where the source is identified as Coast Guard or FCC regulations in Title 46 or Title 47, respectively, of the Code of Federal Regulations (abbreviated "46 CFR" or "47 CFR" in the tables). In these tables, the requirements apply to self-propelled vessels, and - Passenger ship means a vessel which carries more than six passengers, including civilian nautical school ships and sailing school vessels; Fishing vessel means a commercial fishing industry vessel which comes under the regulations in Part 28 in Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations; and Cargo ship means a commercial vessel which is not a passenger vessel or fishing vessel. The term includes self-propelled Mobile Offshore Drilling Units, tank vessels, oceanographic research vessels, and public nautical school ships. Acronyms used in the tables: EPIRB: Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacon FCC: Federal Communications Commission GMDSS: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System SOLAS: International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea Notes: 1. "Class A EPIRB" means a Coast Guard approved and FCC type accepted, Class A 121.5/243 MHz EPIRB, installed to automatically float free of a sinking vessel. 2. "Satellite EPIRB," for U.S. registered vessels, means an FCC type accepted, 406 MHz EPIRB. Unless otherwise stated, the required EPIRB is a Category 1, installed to automatically float free of a sinking vessel. Category 2 devices are similar, but are manually operated. 3. "Survival craft EPIRB," for U.S. registered vessels, means an FCC type accepted, Class S, 121.5/243 MHz EPIRB. 4. "Transponder," for U.S. registered vessels, means an FCC type accepted 9 GHz radar transponder, sometimes referred to as a Search and Rescue Radar Transponder (SART). 5. "Two-way radio," for U.S. registered vessels, means an FCC type accepted, survival craft two-way radiotelephone apparatus, generally VHF, but certain UHF radios may be used until 1995 on some vessels, as explained in the tables. 6. "Survival craft radiotelegraph," for U.S. registered vessels, means FCC type accepted, survival craft radiotelegraph equipment. This equipment is discontinued under GMDSS. It operates on 500 kHz and 8364 kHz. The non- portable version is intended for installation in a lifeboat radio cabin, and is battery powered. The portable version is powered by hand cranks and is sometimes known as a "Gibson Girl."} DATE OF BUILD Before February 1, 1992 On or After February 1, 1992 PASSENGER SHIPS - Inspected, 100 Tons Gross Tonnage and Over - Ocean or Coastwise Service Table 1 (p.3) Table 2 (p.5) - Great Lakes Service Table 16 (p.14) Table 16 (p.14) - Inspected, Less Than 100 Tons Gross Tonnage - Ocean or Coastwise Service - Over 12 Passengers, International Voyages Table 1 (p.3) Table 2 (p.5) - All others Table 3 (p.6) Table 3 (p.6) - Great Lakes Service Table 14 (p. 16) Table 14 (p.16) - Uninspected (6 passengers or less) (Including vessel assistance towing vessels) Table 4 (p. 6) Table 4 (p. 6) INSPECTED CARGO SHIPS - 500 Tons Gross Tonnage and Over - Ocean or Coastwise Service Table 1 (p.3) Table 2 (p.5) - Great Lakes Service Table 14 (p.16) Table 14 (p.16) - 300 Tons Gross Tonnage and Over, But Less Than 500 Tons - Ocean or Coastwise Service Table 5 (p.7) Table 6 (p.8) - Great Lakes Service Table 14 (p.16) Table 14 (p.16) - Less Than 300 Tons Gross Tonnage - Ocean or Coastwise Service Table 7 (p.9) Table 7 (p.9) - Great Lakes Service Table 14 (p.16) Table 14 (p.16) UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS - 500 Tons Gross Tonnage and Over - Beyond Boundary Line / On High Seas Table 8 (p.10) Table 9 (p.11) - Great Lakes Table 15 (p.16) Table 15 (p.16) - 300 Tons Gross Tonnage and Over, But Less Than 500 Tons - Beyond Boundary Line / On High Seas Table 10 (p.12) Table 11 (p.13) - Great Lakes Table 15 (p.16) Table 15 (p.16) - Less Than 300 Tons Gross Tonnage - 11 m (36 ft) Long or More, on the High Seas Table 12 (p.14) Table 12 (p.14) - Under 11 m (36 ft) Long, on the High Seas Table 13 (p.15) Table 13 (p.15) - Great Lakes Table 15 (p.16) Table 15 (p.16) OTHER UNINSPECTED VESSELS - On High Seas Table 13 (p.15) Table 13 (p.15) - Great Lakes Table 15 (p.16) Table 15 (p.16) TABLES 1. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING VESSELS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE BUILT BEFORE FEBRUARY 1, 1992: - PASSENGER SHIPS 100 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER - PASSENGER SHIPS LESS THAN 100 TONS GROSS TONNAGE, CARRYING MORE THAN 12 PASSENGERS ON INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES - CARGO SHIPS 500 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER Ship EPIRB Current requirement, all ships: Satellite EPIRB required (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)).* Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB required under Coast Guard regulations in 46 CFR 33.60, 75.60, 94.60, 108.523, 167.35-72, or 192.65. Survival Craft EPIRB No requirement: However, Coast Guard recommends that Class S or Category 2 EPIRBs be carried in survival craft. 9 GHz Radar Transponder February 1, 1995, all ships: Two transponders, one on each side of the ship in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).* Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft Current requirement, international (SOLAS) voyages only: Three or more two-way radios (1983 SOLAS Amendments). Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) or 457.525 MHz (UHF). Transceivers in use on board the ship before October 1, 1988, and which are compatible with FCC technical requirements, are acceptable until October 1, 1993. Transceivers brought on board to meet this requirement on or after October 1, 1988 must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.271 or 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.271(b) & (c), 80.1095(a)). October 1, 1993, international (SOLAS) voyages only: Three or more two-way radios (1983 SOLAS Amendments). Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) or 457.525 MHz (UHF). All transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.271 or 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.271(d), 80.1095(a)). A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. February 1, 1995, all ships: Three or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).* Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. All transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting either 47 CFR 80.1101, or for VHF radios brought on board prior to February 1, 1992, 47 CFR 80.271 (47 CFR 80.271(d), 80.1095(a)). A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. February 1, 1999, all ships: Three or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. Survival Craft Radiotelegraph No requirement: Under Resolution 4 adopted by the 1988 GMDSS Conference, this requirement may be met by carriage of a satellite EPIRB (above). Coast Guard will therefore accept the vessel's satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for survival craft radiotelegraph equipment required on international voyages under 46 CFR 33.15-25, 75.10-10(a)(4), 75.55-1, 94.55-1, 108.519, 167.35.70, and 192.55-1.} ---------------- * Certain cargo vessels of 1600 tons gross tonnage and upward, on domestic voyages along the coasts of the contiguous 48 states, not more than 150 miles from the nearest land, may be exempt from the indicated requirements until August 1, 1999. See 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(5)(iii) and 80.836(c). ------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING VESSELS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE BUILT ON OR AFTER FEBRUARY 1, 1992: - PASSENGER SHIPS 100 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER - PASSENGER SHIPS LESS THAN 100 TONS GROSS TONNAGE, CARRYING MORE THAN 12 PASSENGERS ON INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES - CARGO SHIPS 500 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER Ship EPIRB Current requirement, all ships: Satellite EPIRB required (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)).* Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB required under Coast Guard regulations in 46 CFR 33.60, 75.60, 94.60, 108.523, 167.35-72, or 192.65. Survival Craft EPIRB No requirement: However, Coast Guard recommends that Class S or Category 2 EPIRBs be carried in survival craft. 9 GHz Radar Transponder Current requirement, all ships: Two transponders, one on each side of the ship in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).* Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft Current requirement, all ships: Three or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).* These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. Survival Craft Radiotelegraph No requirement: Under Resolution 4 adopted by the 1988 GMDSS Conference, this requirement may be met by carriage of a satellite EPIRB (above). Coast Guard will therefore accept the vessel's satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for survival craft radiotelegraph equipment required on international voyages under 46 CFR 33.15-25, 75.10-10(a)(4), 75.55-1, 94.55-1, 108.519, 167.35.70, and 192.55-1. ---------------- * Certain cargo vessels of 1600 tons gross tonnage and upward, on domestic voyages along the coasts of the contiguous 48 states, not more than 150 miles from the nearest land, may be exempt from the indicated requirements until August 1, 1999. See 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(5)(iii) and 80.836(c). ----------------------------------------------------------------- 3. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING VESSELS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE: - PASSENGER SHIPS LESS THAN 100 TONS GROSS TONNAGE, CARRYING MORE THAN 6 PASSENGERS ON VOYAGES WHICH ARE NOT INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES Ship EPIRB Current requirement, ocean service, operating more than 100 miles from the nearest land: Satellite EPIRB required (47 CFR 80.905(a)(3)(vi)). Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for the Class A EPIRB required under 46 CFR 180.40. Current requirement, ocean or coastwise service beyond 20 miles from a harbor of safe refuge (but not more than 100 miles from the nearest land): Class A EPIRB manufactured on or after October 1, 1988 (46 CFR 180.40; 47 CFR 80.1053(a)(8)). Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB. Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require a satellite EPIRB. Under 47 CFR 80.1065(c), these vessels are exempt from FCC regulations requiring this and other GMDSS equipment. 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement: Under 47 CFR 80.1065(c), these vessels are exempt from FCC regulations requiring this and other GMDSS equipment. Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement: Under 47 CFR 80.1065(c), these vessels are exempt from FCC regulations requiring this and other GMDSS equipment. 4. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED PASSENGER VESSELS AND VESSEL ASSISTANCE TOWING VESSELS Ship EPIRB: No requirement 9 GHz Radar Transponder: No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft: No requirement 5. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CARGO SHIPS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE, 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER BUT LESS THAN 500 TONS, BUILT BEFORE FEBRUARY 1, 1992: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, all ships: Satellite EPIRB required (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)). Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB required under Coast Guard regulations in 46 CFR 33.60, 94.60, 108.523, or 192.65. Survival Craft EPIRB No requirement: However, Coast Guard recommends that Class S or Category 2 EPIRBs be carried in survival craft. 9 GHz Radar Transponder February 1, 1995, all ships: One transponder required in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft February 1, 1995, all ships: Two or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. All transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting either 47 CFR 80.1101, or for VHF radios brought on board prior to February 1, 1992, 47 CFR 80.271 (47 CFR 80.271(d), 80.1095(a)). A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. February 1, 1999, all ships: Two or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. Survival Craft Radiotelegraph No requirement 6. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CARGO SHIPS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE, 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER BUT LESS THAN 500 TONS, BUILT ON OR AFTER FEBRUARY 1, 1992: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, all ships: Satellite EPIRB required (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)). Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB required under Coast Guard regulations in 46 CFR 33.60, 94.60, 108.523, or 192.65. Survival Craft EPIRB No requirement: However, Coast Guard recommends that Class S or Category 2 EPIRBs be carried in survival craft. 9 GHz Radar Transponder Current requirement, all ships: One transponder required in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft Current requirement, all ships: Two or more two-way radios (1988 SOLAS Amendments and 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. Survival Craft Radiotelegraph No requirement 7. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CARGO SHIPS IN OCEAN OR COASTWISE SERVICE, LESS THAN 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, ocean or coastwise service beyond 20 miles from a harbor of safe refuge: Class A EPIRB manufactured on or after October 1, 1988 (46 CFR 33.60, 94.60, 108.523, 192.65; 47 CFR 80.1053(a)(8)). Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB. Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require satellite EPIRBs. Until final rules are in place, Coast Guard will accept a satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for a Class A EPIRB. Survival Craft EPIRB No requirement Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require survival craft EPIRBs. 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require VHF two-way radios. Survival Craft Radiotelegraph No requirement 8. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS, 500 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER, BUILT BEFORE FEBRUARY 1, 1992, OPERATING BEYOND THE BOUNDARY LINE OR ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline), except those without berthing facilities and without a galley: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).** Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Satellite EPIRB required (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)).*** March 10, 1994, all vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline): Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder February 1, 1995, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Two transponders, one on each side of the vessel in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).*** Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft February 1, 1995, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Three or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).222 Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. All transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting either 47 CFR 80.1101, or for VHF radios brought on board prior to February 1, 1992, 47 CFR 80.271 (47 CFR 80.271(d), 80.1095(a)). A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. February 1, 1999, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Three or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. ---------------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. *** Certain vessels of 1600 tons gross tonnage and upward, on domestic voyages along the coasts of the contiguous 48 states, not more than 150 miles from the nearest land, may be exempt from the indicated requirements until August 1, 1999. See 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(5)(iii) and 80.836(c).} **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. ------------------------------------------------------------------ 9. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS, 500 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER, BUILT ON OR AFTER FEBRUARY 1, 1992, OPERATING BEYOND THE BOUNDARY LINE OR ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline), except those without berthing facilities and without a galley: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).** Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Satellite EPIRB required (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)).*** March 10, 1994, all vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline): Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Two transponders, one on each side of the vessel in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).*** Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Three or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)).222 These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. ---------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. *** Certain vessels of 1600 tons gross tonnage and upward, on domestic voyages along the coasts of the contiguous 48 states, not more than 150 miles from the nearest land, may be exempt from the indicated requirements until August 1, 1999. See 47 CFR 80.1065(b)(5)(iii) and 80.836(c).} **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 10. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS, 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER BUT LESS THAN 500 TONS, BUILT BEFORE FEBRUARY 1, 1992, OPERATING BEYOND THE BOUNDARY LINE OR ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline), except those without berthing facilities and without a galley: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).** Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Satellite EPIRB required (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)). March 10, 1994, all vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline): Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder February 1, 1995, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: One transponder, in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft February 1, 1995, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Two or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Each must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. All transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting either 47 CFR 80.1101, or for VHF radios brought on board prior to February 1, 1992, 47 CFR 80.271 (47 CFR 80.271(d), 80.1095(a)). A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. February 1, 1999, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Two or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. ------------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. -------------------------------------------------------------------- 11. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS, 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE AND OVER BUT LESS THAN 500 TONS, BUILT ON OR AFTER FEBRUARY 1, 1992, OPERATING BEYOND THE BOUNDARY LINE OR ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline), except those without berthing facilities and without a galley: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).** Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Satellite EPIRB required (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(1)). March 10, 1994, all vessels operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline): Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: One transponder, in a position ready to be taken to the survival craft (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft Current requirement, all vessels operating beyond the Boundary Line: Two or more two-way radios (47 CFR 80.1065(b)(2)). These transceivers must be type accepted by the FCC as meeting 47 CFR 80.1101 (47 CFR 80.1095(a)). Each transceiver must operate on 156.8 MHz (VHF channel 16) and one other channel -- 156.3 MHz (VHF channel 6) is recommended. A transceiver meeting 47 CFR 80.1101, permanently installed in a lifeboat, may be counted toward this requirement. --------------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 12. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL VESSELS (EXCEPT UNINSPECTED PASSENGER VESSELS AND VESSEL ASSISTANCE TOWING VESSELS), LESS THAN 300 TONS GROSS TONNAGE, BUT 11 METERS (36 FEET) OR MORE IN LENGTH, OPERATING ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB Current requirement, commercial fishing industry vessels, with galley or berthing facilities, operating on the high seas (over 3 miles beyond the territorial sea baseline): Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).** March 10, 1994: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 25.26-20(a), 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement} ------------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 13. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL VESSELS (EXCEPT UNINSPECTED PASSENGER VESSELS AND VESSEL ASSISTANCE TOWING VESSELS), LESS THAN 11 METERS (36 FEET) IN LENGTH, OPERATING ON THE HIGH SEAS: Ship EPIRB March 10, 1994: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 25.26-20(a), 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement ------------------ ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. ------------------------------------------------------------------- 14. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR INSPECTED VESSELS IN GREAT LAKES SERVICE, INCLUDING: - PASSENGER SHIPS - CARGO SHIPS Ship EPIRB Current requirement: Two FCC type accepted Class C Channel 16 VHF EPIRBs required (46 CFR 33.60, 75.60, 94.60, 167.35-72, 192.65). (One EPIRB required on small passenger vessels inspected under 46 CFR Subchapter T (46 CFR 180.40-1).) Coast Guard will accept one satellite EPIRB as an equivalent replacement for one or two Class C EPIRBs. Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require a satellite EPIRB. 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement Proposed regulations: Coast Guard has proposed, but has not taken final action on rules which would require three or more VHF two-way radios on all vessels, except for small passenger vessels inspected under 46 CFR Subchapter T. 15. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNINSPECTED COMMERCIAL VESSELS (EXCEPT UNINSPECTED PASSENGER VESSELS AND VESSEL ASSISTANCE TOWING VESSELS), OPERATING ON THE GREAT LAKES: Ship EPIRB March 10, 1994, all vessels operating over 3 miles beyond the coastline: Satellite EPIRB required (46 CFR 25.26-5, 28.150).**, **** 9 GHz Radar Transponder No requirement Two-Way Radiotelephone Apparatus for Survival Craft No requirement ----------------- ** If the vessel has a builder's certification that it is constructed with sufficient inherent buoyancy to keep the flooded vessel afloat, either a Category 1 or Category 2 EPIRB can be used to meet this requirement. **** A Class A or Class B EPIRB may be used to meet the EPIRB requirement until February 1, 1998 if - The vessel does not have either galley or berthing facilities; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was on board on or before April 26, 1993; The Class A or Class B EPIRB was built after October 1, 1988; and Any Class B EPIRB used to meet this requirement is watertight and self- buoyant, and stable in a floating position to properly transmit a distress signal. Notice: Information contained in this Circular may have changed since its publication in November 1993.----------------------------------------- 12. RADIO LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT REQUIR