🔍 Key Concepts

• Ring life buoy requirements for OSVs in 46 CFR Subchapter L (Lifesaving for Offshore Supply Vessels) • The difference between total number of ring life buoys required and how many must have self-igniting lights (water lights) • Special provisions for ocean service compared to limited or coastwise service

💭 Think About

• First, think about how many ring life buoys are required for an OSV on ocean service, then consider what fraction or minimum number of those must be fitted with water lights. • Ask yourself: does the regulation usually say “at least X or not less than half” of the buoys must have lights, or does it specify an exact fixed number regardless of how many buoys are carried? • Consider why water lights are needed at night and in heavy weather and whether regulations tend to require them on every buoy or only on some of them.

✅ Before You Answer

• Look up the specific section in 46 CFR Part 133 – Lifesaving Systems for OSVs, especially the table or paragraph that lists ring life buoy equipment (smoke signals, lines, self-igniting lights). • Verify whether the rule states a minimum percentage (like half of all buoys) and whether there is also a minimum number that must have water lights. • Make sure you are not confusing the requirement for smoke signals or buoyant lines with the separate requirement for self-igniting water lights.