🔍 Key Concepts

• Who sets equipment and construction standards for lifeboats on U.S. cargo vessels under 46 CFR (Title 46 – Shipping) • Difference between regulatory authorities (like the Coast Guard) and classification societies (like ABS) • Whether a master or manufacturer can change safety equipment requirements that are already set by regulation and approval

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Are oar requirements part of a vessel’s regulatory safety equipment or just a matter of the owner’s or master’s preference? • Which of the listed choices has the legal authority to approve lifeboat design and required equipment for U.S.-flag cargo vessels? • Could a manufacturer or master legally decide to carry fewer oars than required, or would that violate an external standard?

✅ Before You Answer

• Check who issues binding regulations for survival craft on U.S. cargo vessels (look in 46 CFR Subchapter W – Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements). • Confirm whether classification societies like ABS enforce law, or whether they apply standards within the framework of national regulations. • Verify whether the master or manufacturer can override or reduce equipment required by federal regulation or approval certificates.