🔍 Key Concepts

• 46 CFR Subchapter T requirements for life buoys on small passenger vessels under 40 feet in length • Difference between equipment that must be readily accessible versus secured to the vessel • When life buoys must have lifelines and/or specific color markings

💭 Think About

• Think about the primary purpose of a life buoy during an emergency: what must you be able to do with it, and how quickly? • If a life buoy is needed for a person overboard, how would each choice (tied, color requirement, with/without lifeline) affect its usefulness? • Which options sound like they would directly support a fast, effective man-overboard response on a 28-foot passenger vessel?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify in 46 CFR 180.70–180.78 (or current equivalent section for life-saving appliances on Subchapter T vessels) what is required for life buoys on small passenger vessels under 40 feet • Check whether regulations say life buoys must be capable of being quickly released and thrown (i.e., readily accessible) or permanently secured • Confirm if the regulations require specific color for all life buoys and whether lifelines are mandatory on them for a 28-foot small passenger vessel