Prior to entering the navigable waters of the United States after an international voyage, your vessel must conduct drills according to 33 CFR regulations for ports and waterways safety that test steering system functionality and log that in the vessel logbook, unless the drill is conducted and logged on a regular basis at least once every three months. Within how many hours of arrival must these drills be performed?
• 33 CFR Part 164 – specifically provisions on steering gear tests and drills before entering U.S. ports • Difference between pre-arrival tests and routine (every three months) steering drills • Understanding that the time limit is measured before arrival in U.S. waters, not departure
• Ask yourself: According to 33 CFR pre-arrival requirements, what is the maximum time window allowed before entering port to complete steering gear tests? • Consider typical bridge procedures: Would these safety‑critical tests be required very close to arrival, moderately before arrival, or up to a couple of days before? • Think about similar pre‑arrival tests (like communications and navigation equipment). Do those tend to be measured in just a few hours or in days?
• Verify the exact wording in 33 CFR regarding steering gear tests and the phrase "prior to entering U.S. waters" • Confirm the maximum number of hours specified there; do not assume based on other equipment requirements • Make sure you distinguish between the three‑month regular drill requirement and the short pre‑arrival time window requirement—they are different things.
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