🔍 Key Concepts

• 46 CFR Subchapter W – Lifesaving Appliances, especially EPIRB requirements for different vessel types • Differences between self-propelled vs. non-self-propelled vessels in the regulations • How tonnage thresholds (over 100 GT) affect equipment carriage requirements

💭 Think About

• For each answer choice, ask: Is this vessel type normally required to operate independently offshore, or is it usually under the control/protection of another vessel? • Consider which categories of vessels have their own full set of safety and lifesaving requirements, and which rely on the requirements of another vessel. • Think about whether EPIRB rules generally apply more to vessels that can be abandoned far from help vs. those that are usually accompanied or controlled by another vessel.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify in 46 CFR which specific vessel types over 100 GT are explicitly listed as needing an EPIRB. • Check whether the rules distinguish between self-propelled and non self-propelled vessels regarding EPIRBs. • Confirm whether being in tow changes the EPIRB requirement for that particular vessel itself.