ACSA Guidance
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
ACSA Program Points of Contact 3
ACSA Program Background 4
ACSA Safety Standards and Permitted Processing Activities 6
Roles and responsibilities within the ACSA program 8
Section A - Administration 11
Section B – Vessel Stability 19
Section C - Dry-dock & internal structural exam 22
Section D - Hull thickness gauging 28
Section E - Tail shaft & rudder exams 29
Section F - Watertight and Weathertight Integrity 33
Section G - Machinery systems 37
Section H - Life Saving equipment & arrangements 44
Section I - Fixed firefighting equipment & arrangements 46
Section J - Other Firefighting and Safety Equipment 50
Section K - Emergency drills and training 53
Section L - Emergency communication and navigation 56
Annex 1 - Product Codes 58
Annex 2 - Compliance Matrix 60
Annex 3 - Grandfathered Fish Processing Vessels 61
Annex 4 - Sample Renewal Request Letter 62
Annex 5 - Sample ACSA Exemption Letters 63
Annex 6 - Relative Comparison of Load Line and ACSA Requirements 66
Annex 7 Engine Automation in Lieu of Assistant Engineer 67
Annex 8 Sample Lay-up request 69
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ACSA Guidance
Introduction
The Alternate Compliance and Safety Agreement (ACSA) is a vessel compliance program
developed in 2006 for a specific and well-defined population of fish processing vessels
operating in federal and state fisheries off Alaska, Washington, and Oregon. The fish
processing vessels currently enrolled in this program belong to three different catcher /
processors (C/P) sectors: the non-pollock freezer trawler (aka Amendment 80) C/P sector, the
cod freezer longline C/P sector, and the pot cod C/P sector. With few exceptions, these
vessels are required by statute and regulation to meet the safety standards of vessel
classification and load line. Vessels in the ACSA fleet had been in service for an average of 31
years and lacked class plan review and approval of vessel systems and machinery components. If
the requirements applicable to processing vessels were strictly enforced throughout the fleet, most
of these vessels could not be accepted for classification. Therefore, these vessels would likely have
reduced the scope of their operation to that of fishing vessel only, which would have done little to
improve safety. In order to avoid that scenario, the Alternate Compliance and Safety Agreement
(ACSA) Program was developed by Coast Guard Districts 13 and 17 to provide an alternate safety
regime whereby these vessels might qualify for an exemption from classification and load line
requirements.
ACSA Program Guidance
Guidance provided in this document establishes procedures and criteria by which this fleet of
vessels may obtain exemptions from classification and load line requirements under the
authority of Title 46 United States Code (USC), Section 4506 and Section 5108. Since 2006,
the ACSA program has been refined as lessons have been learned through the inspection of
these vessels and as casualty investigations have identified recommendations to improve
safety. As the program has evolved, ACSA program guidance has also been revised.
In February 2012, the Coast Guard initiated a comprehensive review of policies that govern
the ACSA program. The new policy document, CG-543 Policy Letter 12-01, dated February
15, 2012, supersedes previous ACSA policy and establishes the roles and responsibilities that
Coast Guard Headquarters, Districts, and Sectors shall assume in the administration of the
ACSA program. The policy letter states specific examination requirements for the ACSA
Program shall be contained in the Guidance for the ACSA Program (ACSA Guide) and that the
development of Standard Operating Procedures to manage ACSA administrative activities,
consistent with the policy letter, is authorized.
This Guidance for the ACSA Program is not a substitute for applicable legal requirements, nor
does it constitute a formal rulemaking. It is not intended to, nor does it impose legally binding
requirements on any party. The guidance in this document establishes the procedures and
criteria by which an ACSA vessel owner may obtain exemptions from classification and load
line requirements.
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ACSA Guidance
Success of the ACSA Program
The ACSA program has facilitated major improvements to safety conditions throughout the
affected C/P fleets. The hallmark of ACSA is the approach of working closely with industry
stakeholders in developing elements of this program in order to prevent vessel losses and save
lives. The Coast Guard will continue to exercise an aggressive leadership role in this Program
while consulting with fleet stakeholders to honor their significant commitment to date.
Because the ACSA fleet operates in both the Thirteenth and Seventeenth District areas of
operations, the ACSA Program was developed with the concurrence of both District
Commanders. Continued success of the ACSA Program depends upon a high level of
coordination between the affected vessel owners, Sector Puget Sound, Sector Anchorage, and
the Thirteenth and Seventeenth Coast Guard Districts.
Document Availability
ACSA guidance documents are updated and maintained electronically. An electronic version
of this document with active hyperlinks for each reference may be accessed at
fishsafewest.info. Previous ACSA program guidance and other historic ACSA program
documents are also maintained at the 13
th
Coast Guard District.
Collection of Information
This document and CG-543 Policy Letter 12-01 may call for the “collection of information”
as defined in the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. To the extent such
a collection has not been approved by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) and does not display a valid control number assigned by the Director, no person shall
be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with the collection of information.
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ACSA Guidance
ACSA Program Points of Contact
Scheduling of ACSA Examinations and ACSA Compliance Questions
Requests for ACSA examinations and questions regarding ACSA compliance or inspection
concerns should be made to the appropriate Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection or their
representative.
ACSA OCMI Representative for Sector Puget Sound may be contacted at
(206) 217-6187
ACSA OCMI Representative for Sector Anchorage
When examinations are being requested for Dutch Harbor or Kodiak, please also contact the
appropriate Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment directly as listed below:
USCG Marine Safety Detachment Dutch Harbor (907) 581-3466
USCG Marine Safety Detachment Kodiak (907) 486-5918
ACSA Program Guidance Document
To obtain copies of the ACSA Guide on CD, or for questions regarding guidance for the
ACSA program contact the Thirteenth Coast Guard District ACSA Coordinator.
Appeals
In accordance with 46 CFR Part 1.03-20, any person directly affected by a decision or action
of an OCMI may after requesting reconsideration of the decision or action by the cognizant
OCMI, make a formal appeal of that decision or action to the Commander of the district in
which the office of the cognizant OCMI is located.
OCMI Sector Puget Sound OCMI Sector Anchorage
(206) 217-6180 (907) 428-4200
24-hour number (206) 217-6002 24-hour number (907) 428-4100
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ACSA Guidance
ACSA Program Background
Regulatory History Leading to Developing the ACSA Program
From 1991 to 2006, most of the ACSA fleet had been (incorrectly) regulated for safety
purposes by the Coast Guard as “fishing vessels” instead of as “fish processing vessels.” The
definitions for these two terms are provided in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11a) and 46 U.S.C. 2101 (11b)
respectively:
● Fishing Vessel: “A vessel that commercially engages in the catching, taking, or harvesting
of fish or an activity that can reasonably be expected to result in the catching, taking, or
harvesting of fish.”
● Fish Processing Vessel: “A vessel that commercially prepares fish or fish products other
than by gutting, decapitating, gilling, skinning, shucking, icing, freezing or brine
chilling.”
In terms of vessel safety requirements, the Commercial Fishing Industry Vessel Safety Act of
1988 (P.L. 100-424) and the implementing regulations found in 46 CFR Part 28 make
significant distinctions between “fishing” and “fish processing vessels.” Fishing vessels are
only required to meet minimal carriage requirements for lifesaving and firefighting
equipment. The requirements for fish processing vessels are much more comprehensive and
stringent than those required for fishing vessels. Depending on the vessel’s construction or
conversion date, a fish processing vessel is required to meet the requirements of load line and
classification.
● Load Line: A fish processing vessel built after 1974 or a vessel converted for use as a fish
processing vessel after 1983 is required to meet the requirements for 46 CFR Subchapter
E – Load lines.
● Classification: A fish processing vessel built for service as a fish processing vessel, or a
vessel which undergoes a major conversion for service as a fish processing vessel after
1990 must be classed by the American Bureau of Shipping, or a similarly qualified
organization.
Formal Coast Guard investigations into the loss of F/V ARCTIC ROSE in 2001 and the loss
of FPV GALAXY in 2002 revealed that nearly all vessels in the ACSA fleet were operating
as fish processing vessels. These investigations also revealed that the vast majority of this
fleet was not in compliance with the applicable examination and classification requirements in
46 CFR 28, Subpart F, or load line requirements in 46 CFR Subchapter E.
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ACSA Guidance
While vessels in the ACSA fleet had been in service for an average of 41 years, the vast
majority were not purpose built and had been converted, often multiple times, from other
vessel types. These vessels lacked class plan review and approval of vessel systems and
machinery components. If the requirements applicable to fish processing vessels were strictly
enforced throughout the fleet, most of the vessels could not be accepted for classification.
Therefore, these vessels would likely have to reduce the scope of their operation to that of a
fishing vessel producing Head and Gut (H & G) products only, operating with less economic
efficiency, and would have done little to improve safety. In order to avoid that scenario, the
ACSA Program was developed by Coast Guard Districts 13 and 17 to provide an alternate
safety regime whereby these vessels might qualify for exemption from classification and load
line requirements.
Discussion of Exemption Authority
The exemption authority in 46 CFR 28.60 is based on 46 USC 4506 and states that the District
Commander may grant exemptions, provided that (1) good cause exists for granting an
exemption; and (2) the safety of the vessel and those on board will not be adversely affected.
Therefore, the District Commander may exempt a fish processing vessel from classification
requirements found in 46 CFR 28.720.
Load line requirements are established in 46 USC 5101. Because ACSA vessels engage in
catching fish, they meet the definition of ``fishing vessel'' under the International Convention
on Load Lines, 1966, and are not subject to international load line requirements. In
accordance with 46 U.S.C. 5108(a)(1), a vessel entitled to an exemption under an international
agreement may also be granted an exemption under U.S. law. Therefore, these vessels may be
exempted from domestic voyage load line requirements, pursuant to 46 CFR 42.03-30. The
ACSA Program allows for the District Commander to grant this exemption and an exemption
for classification in a single letter of exemption.
Because most vessels within the ACSA program conduct their primary shipyard and vessel
inspection activities in the Sector Puget Sound area of responsibility, the Thirteenth District
ACSA Program Coordinator will process exemption letters for all ACSA vessels.
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ACSA Guidance
ACSA Safety Standards and Permitted Processing Activities
The Coast Guard and the affected members of the Amendment 80 sector, the cod freezer
longline sector, and the pot cod C/P sector have gone to great lengths to develop a regime that
will provide a level of safety appropriate for this fleet of vessels. The ACSA program focuses
on the following components of vessel safety:
Vessel Stability
Drydock & Internal
Structural Exams
Tail Shaft &
Rudder Exams
Watertight &
Weathertight Integrity
Propulsion &
Electrical Generation
Machinery
Vital Piping
Systems
Life Saving
Equipment &
Arrangements
Fire Prevention, Fire
Detection, & Fire
Fighting Equipment
Emergency Training,
Drills and Response
Navigation Safety
Emergency
Communications
Table 1: General ACSA Safety Requirements
Relative comparison of Load Line and ACSA requirements has been conducted by the Coast
Guard and is provided in Annex 6. In 2008, the Deputy Commandant for Operations
determined that a vessel in compliance with ACSA demonstrates a level of safety appropriate
for this fleet when all ACSA program elements are met. Publication of the CG-543 12-01
Policy letter further supports this determination.
What Fish Processing Activities Are Permitted Under ACSA?
As established in the previous sections, vessels within the ACSA program have been
determined by the Coast Guard to be “fish processing vessels” based upon the fish products
which are produced on board. A critical component of the ACSA Program is that the Coast
Guard has defined (with significant input from affected fishing industry associations, naval
architects, and other fishing industry leadership), those individual fish products which meet
the statutory definitions of “fish processing.” These specific fish products codes are described
in detail by the National Marine Fisheries Service in
50 CFR 679, Table 1a.
By determining which NMFS Processing fish products listed in 50 CFR 679, Table 1a meet
the statutory definition of fish processing, there is full transparency for ACSA vessel owners,
operators, and the Coast Guard as to whether a vessel is operating as a fish processing vessel.
The table on the following page is a summary of products, based upon 50 CFR 679, Table 1a,
which are produced on fish processing vessels which operate in the North Pacific federal
fisheries. This table categorizes those products into three general categories; whether that
product is allowed to be produced on a fishing vessel, ACSA vessel, or fish processing vessel.
A comprehensive summary of these fish products is found in Annex 1.
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ACSA Guidance
Fish Product Name
Column A
Head and Gut
Fish Products Allowed
for Fishing Vessels
Column B
Fish Processing Products
Allowed for ACSA Vessels
Column C
Fish Processing Products
Allowed on Classed/Loadlined
or Grandfathered Vessels
Whole Fish (for) Meal
X
X
X
Bled Only
X
X
X
Bled Fish destined for Meal
X
X
X
Gutted, Head On
X
X
X
Gutted, Head Off
X
X
X
Head & Gutted with Roe
X
X
X
Headed & Gutted, Western Cut
X
X
X
Headed & Gutted, Eastern Cut
X
X
X
Wings
X
X
X
Mantles, Octopus or Squid
X
X
X
Headed & Gutted, Tail Removed
X
X
Kirimi (Steak)
X
X
Roe
X
X
Pectoral Girdle
X
X
Heads
X
X
Chins
X
X
Cheeks
X
X
Milt
X
X
Stomachs
X
X
Salted and Split
X
Belly Flaps
X
Fillets with Skin & Ribs
X
Fillets with Skin, No Ribs
X
Fillets, Skinless / Boneless
X
Fillets, Deep Skin
X
Surimi
X
Minced
X
Fish Meal
X
Fish Oil
X
Butterfly, No Backbone
X
Bones
X
Table (2): Summary of Fish Products
● A “fishing vessel” may only produce those products listed in Column A.
● An “ACSA compliant” vessel may only produce those products listed in Column B.
● A fully classed and loadlined fish processing a vessel, or a fish processing vessel that is
otherwise grandfathered from the requirements from classification and load line, may
produce those products found in Column C.
Safety Sub-Categories of Vessels
With the development of the ACSA program, vessels within the Amendment 80, the cod
freezer longline CP sector, and the pot cod CP sector generally fall into one of five
sub-categories for the purposes of safety regulations:
● Fishing Vessel (H & G Products Only): A vessel under this safety regime is only required
to meet safety standards 46 CFR 28 subparts A-C standards. These fishing vessels may
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ACSA Guidance
only produce those products found in Column A.
● Grandfathered Fish Processing Vessels: A vessel under this safety regime is only required
to meet safety standards 46 CFR 28 and is also required to be examined by a USCG third
party surveyor every two years. These fish processing vessels have no processing
limitation and may produce any product described in Column C.
● ACSA Compliant (requiring Classification and Load Line exemption): These vessels are
neither classed or loadlined, but they produce fish products which classify them as “fish
processing vessels.” To continue to be allowed to produce fish products in Column B,
these vessels must be in compliance with the ACSA program and possess aboard an
exemption letter exempting the vessel from both classification and load line.
● ACSA Compliant + Load Line: These fish processing vessels are not classed but do have a
current load line. They produce fish products which classify them as “fish processing
vessels.” To continue to be allowed to produce fish products in Column B, these vessels
must be in compliance with the ACSA program, must maintain compliance with load line
requirements and possess aboard an exemption letter exempting the vessel from
classification.
● Classification + Load line: These fish processing vessels are fully classed, and load lined
and are not required to be enrolled in ACSA. There are no limits on the products that can
be made by these vessels.
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ACSA Guidance
Roles and Responsibilities within the ACSA Program
It is the Coast Guard’s aim to provide a high degree of engagement and oversight of the
ACSA program and will assume the lead for compliance with ACSA provisions. The
following responsibilities within the Coast Guard are established by CG-543 Policy Letter
12-01, Alternate Compliance and Safety Agreement (ACSA) Program.
Coast Guard Headquarters: Headquarters will review the Guidance for the ACSA Program
and work with Districts to ensure the ACSA Program is consistent with Commandant Policies
and regulatory changes.
Coast Guard District Thirteen: The Thirteenth District ACSA Coordinator is responsible
for processing exemption requests and maintaining ACSA program documents, including the
online version of the ACSA Guide.
● Issuance of Exemption Letters: The District Commander may continue to issue a letter
of exemption, valid for up to two years, to allow a vessel enrolled in the ACSA
program to continue operating as a fish processing vessel. A letter of exemption shall
only be granted where it is determined that (1) Good cause exists for granting the
exemption; and (2) The safety of the vessel and those on board will not be adversely
affected. Prior to being granted an exemption by the District Commander, the Officer
in Charge of Marine Inspection will submit a memo to the District Commander
verifying that the vessel owner has completed all required examinations for enrollment
into the ACSA program, and that all activities related to the ACSA program are
properly documented.
● Guidance for the ACSA Program: Specific examination requirements for the ACSA
Program shall be contained in the ACSA Guide. Sectors, District Commanders, and
ACSA Coordinators shall ensure that the ACSA Guide is updated as necessary to
establish any new requirements that are needed to provide for a continued and an
appropriate level of safety. This document shall be the primary source of information
for ACSA examination and safety requirements, policy determinations and
clarifications, inspection procedures and other criteria regarding obtaining exemptions
from classification and load line. Maintaining an online version of this document shall
be the responsibility of the Thirteenth District ACSA Program Coordinator.
● Fish Product Guide: The ACSA Guide shall include a list of fish products which are
considered to be “fish processing.” The product codes listed by the National Marine
Fisheries Service 50 CFR 679, Table 1a will be used in this determination. If industry
practices change or if questions arise regarding what operations qualify a vessel as a
fish processing vessel, the OCMI will evaluate the operation and forward a
recommendation to the Commandant (CG-PCV-3), via the District Commander, for a
final determination.
● Changes to Guidance for the ACSA Program: During the first five years of the ACSA
program, changes were made to the ACSA Guidance document on an annual basis to
consider lessons learned from the previous year’s examinations or to consider the
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ACSA Guidance
findings of marine casualty investigations. Following the 2012 revision, proposed
changes to the document should be rare. If a change request is proposed, it should be of
sufficient gravity and importance to necessitate fleet wide changes in policy to provide
for a continued and appropriate level of safety. While proposed changes may be
initiated by vessel owners, Sector, or District personnel, all such change requests must
be thoroughly vetted locally prior to submission to CG-CVC-3. Vetting will be
coordinated by the 13
th
District ACSA Coordinator and include input from vessel
owners (typically represented by industry associations), the 17
th
Coast Guard District
and the affected OCMI/Sector offices.). Recommended changes will then be proposed
at an ACSA Stakeholders’ Meeting. If there is concurrence to change the ACSA
Guidance following the meeting, a memo shall be drafted and routed from the 13
th
District ACSA Coordinator to Coast Guard Headquarters CG-CVC thru the 17
th
District
Fishing Vessel Safety Coordinator and the Pacific Area Fishing Vessel Safety
Coordinator. CG-CVC will retain final review and approval of changes made to the
ACSA Guidance document.
● The ACSA Vessel Status spreadsheet shall be maintained by the ACSA Coordinator
and distributed to Sector Puget Sound, D17, and Sector Anchorage.
Sectors: ACSA is a vessel compliance program. Consistent with other Coast Guard vessel
compliance programs, operational decision making, program execution, enforcement, and day
to day management of the program will be maximized at the OCMI / Sector level.
Specifically, the OCMI shall:
● Receive and process requests for ACSA examinations
● Conduct ACSA examinations
● Make appropriate entries into MISLE and process ACSA case work.
● The OCMI representative shall forward requests to the District Commander for
exemptions from load line and classification.
● Maintain ACSA vessel files.
● Initiate and provide input as necessary to District staff for changes to ACSA program
requirements.
● Maintain liaison with the Marine Safety Center, classification societies, naval
architects, fishing association and industry leaders, fishery managers, vessel owners and
operators.
● Coordinate activities and passing of information between Sectors.
● Conduct marine casualty investigations and enforcement actions as necessary with
ACSA vessels in accordance with the marine safety manual.
● Ensure that properly qualified and trained marine inspectors are assigned to conduct
ACSA examinations, including verification of emergency drills.
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ACSA Guidance
ACSA Vessel Owners’ Responsibilities
● At least 60 days prior to the ACSA Renewal Exam ACSA vessel owners must submit
a written request for exemption to the appropriate district office thru the OCMI in the
zone where the owner intends to have the ACSA Renewal Exam completed, see
initiate tracking
● Track examination due dates and ensure requests for ACSA examinations are made to
the Coast Guard in a timely manner.
● Be prepared for examinations by completing inspection checklists in the ACSA 840
Book.
● Ensure deficiencies are corrected in a timely manner and followed up with
communications with the ACSA Examiner.
● Ensure vessels and crews remain in continual compliance with the agreement
● Notify the appropriate USCG ACSA Examiner of emergency or unplanned
dry-dockings and repairs to critical systems.
Early, frequent, and clear communication between the vessel owner and the Coast Guard
Examiner will alleviate most issues which arise during an ACSA examination.
Role of Approved Third Party Organizations
Representatives of third-party organizations can conduct the required annual Certificate of
Compliance examination. Annex 2 provides a guide on who may perform verification tasks
as part of the ACSA Program.
Section A – Administration
ACSA Exemption and Examination Process
General: A vessel’s acceptance into the ACSA program is at the discretion of the District
Commander, and a vessel’s status in the program is contingent upon compliance with ACSA
program requirements. Because the majority of ACSA exam activity occurs in Sector Puget
Sound’s AOR, the Thirteenth District Commander will serve as the “exempting authority” for
ACSA vessels and will issue ACSA Exemption Letters.
Definitions:
ACSA Exemption Exams: These exams are conducted to ensure compliance with all ACSA
requirements (including drydock, hull, internal structural exams, machinery, and stability
requirements), in addition to other fishing industry vessel requirements (vessel safety,
performance of drills, pollution prevention, licensing, etc.) ACSA Exemption Exams are
conducted every two years and result in the issuance of an ACSA Exemption Letter and a
fishing vessel safety decal.
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ACSA Guidance
ACSA Mid-Period Exams: Similar to a re-inspection of an inspected vessel, ACSA Annual
exams are intended to verify compliance with ACSA requirements, but not to the extent they
were examined during the Exemption Exam. Emphasis during the Annual Exam should be
placed upon firefighting and lifesaving equipment, watertight integrity, performance of safety
drills, and inspection items which are due for examination. The Mid-Period Exam is to be
conducted within 60 days before or after the ACSA Exemption Exam anniversary date. This
examination results in the annual endorsement of the ACSA Exemption letter by the attending
inspector.
Drydock Exams: Drydock means hauling out a vessel or placing a vessel in a drydock for an
examination of all accessible parts of the vessel’s underwater body and all thru-hull fittings
and appurtenances. Consistent with inspected vessels, these exams shall occur twice in five
years, not to exceed three years.
Internal Structural Exams: This exam consists of a complete internal examination of the
vessel’s main strength members, including the major internal framing, hull plating, voids, and
ballast, cargo, and fuel oil tanks. Consistent with inspected vessels, these exams shall occur
twice in five years, not to exceed three years.
Deficiency Exams: Examination visits conducted to clear requirements.
Stability Oversight Exams: Conducted once every five years as needed for deadweight
surveys and inclining experiments. This five-year interval may be adjusted based upon
guidance provided by the Coast Guard Marine Safety Center.
Certificate of Compliance: Fish processing vessels are required by laws and regulations to
carry a Certificate of Compliance in accordance with 46 CFR Part 28.710. A fishing vessel
safety decal shall be issued to accompany the Certificate of Compliance.
Procedures for Submitting Exemption Requests
Current ACSA Vessels:
30 days prior to the expiration date of the current ACSA letter, ACSA vessel owners shall
submit a written request for exemption from classification and load line (when applicable) to
request to the appropriate district office and OCMI zone where the owner intends to have the
ACSA Renewal Exam completed. See Annex 4 for sample request letter.
The OCMI shall evaluate whether the request for exemption is appropriate. If the vessel is
currently enrolled in ACSA and is in good standing, the appropriate ACSA examinations shall
be scheduled. If there is a question or concern that may lead to the OCMI not recommending
the vessel for future continuance in the ACSA program, the OCMI shall notify the district
prevention office.
New Entrants and vessels desiring to re-enter the ACSA Program: The owner of a fish
processing vessel that is not currently in ACSA and does not have valid classification or load
line certification may apply for an exemption from classification and load line requirements
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ACSA Guidance
subject to certain conditions. Under provisions of 46 USC 4503(d)(5), a fish processing
vessel (that was classed as a fish processing vessel) before July 1, 2012 shall remain in class.
If the vessel in question had not previously been classed (or load lined), the request for
exemption may continue.
Exemptions are not automatically granted. In requesting an exemption, the vessel owner has
the burden of proof to demonstrate that (1) Good cause exists for granting the exemption; and
(2) The safety of the vessel and those on board will not be adversely affected. Requests for
new entrants in the ACSA program shall be submitted to the 13
th
Coast Guard District.
Fish processing vessel owners requesting an initial exemption may only operate as an H & G
vessel (produce those products provided in Column A of Table (1)) until such time as the
exemption has been granted (if granted at all) and the vessel is in full compliance with the
conditions of the exemption.
Conducting Vessel Examinations and Requirements for Deficiency Lists
Once scheduled, the OCMI shall assign qualified marine inspectors (drydock, hull, machinery
as appropriate) to conduct all exams the ACSA vessel requires to receive the requested
exemptions from classification and load line. The OCMI shall ensure the following
administrative activities are completed following the vessel examination.
● All deficiencies are documented with appropriate completion dates and entered into
MISLE. A copy of these deficiencies will be provided to the vessel representative
(master, engineer, or port engineer) within 5 working days of the inspection activity.
Original deficiency lists will be kept with the case file.
● Complete associated MISLE activities within the time frames specified in the MISLE
Guide. When a vessel is expected to follow-up on deficiencies in another OCMI zone,
effort should be made to expedite MISLE entry.
● If an ACSA vessel is transiting to another OCMI zone with outstanding deficiencies,
scanned copies of all deficiency lists generated shall be emailed to the appropriate
department / division / branch at the receiving OCMI zone as soon as possible to facilitate
scheduling of follow-up examination activities.
OCMI Requests for Exemption Letters from the District Commander
The District Commander is the “exempting authority” for ACSA vessels. In order to keep the
process uniform and have a consistent point of contact D13 issues the ACSA Exemption
Letters for both D13 and D17 thru the ACSA Coordinator. Upon completion of the
appropriate examinations necessary to obtain an exemption letter, The cognizant OCMI
submits a memo to D13(p) or if in Alaska via D17(p) recommending exemption and certifies
the vessel substantially complies with ACSA.
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ACSA Guidance
If the OCMI has found the vessel to be in substantial compliance the OCMI may permit the
vessel to operate for an additional 60 days from the date of the memo until the Exemption
Letter is signed by the District Commander. A copy of the memo shall be provided to the
vessel owner to present to Boarding Teams and other concerned parties as proof of
compliance.
A vessel may have outstanding deficiencies and still be “in substantial compliance” with the
ACSA program. The attending marine inspector shall exercise their sound judgment,
experience, and consider all relevant factors to ensure that outstanding deficiencies may be
completed within the time frame allowed without posing undue risk to the vessel or its crew.
D13(dp) shall mail the signed exemption letter to the vessel owner and scan the signed
exemption letter into the Coast Guard MISLE database.
Appeals
Owners have the right to request reconsideration of requirements issued by the attending
USCG inspector to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) listed in the contacts
section. If upon reconsideration, owners are still aggrieved by the decision or action, further
appeal may be made to the District Commander in accordance with 46 CFR 1.03-20. Owners
also have the right to continue to appeal the decision of the District Commander to
Commandant CG-CVC-3, in accordance with 46 CFR 1.03-25.
Consequences for non-compliance
Consequences may include:
● No-Sail deficiencies
● Revocation of the Fish Processing Vessel Certificate of Compliance
● Revocation of Exemptions from Classification and Load Line
● Captain of the Port Orders will be issued for conditions that immediately and
adversely affect the safety/ seaworthiness of the vessel. COTP Orders have associated
statutory penalties that will be referred to enforcement when violated.
Disenrollment from ACSA
When a vessel is not in substantial compliance with the agreement, is defined as:
1) There are overdue deficiencies regarding stability or critical systems; or
2) The vessel fails to complete required exams; or
3) Poor material condition of the vessel adversely affects the safety of the vessel or crew.
In such cases then, the OCMI / COTP may exercise one or more of the options in the
following order:
1) Issue a “No Sail” 835 deficiency:
2) Issue a Captain of the Port Order (COTPO) per 33 CFR 160.111 authorities, controlling the
vessel’s movement (and subjecting the vessel to civil penalties);
14
ACSA Guidance
3) Revoke the vessel’s Certificate of Compliance (Coc) required under 46 CFR Part 28.710
and notify the NOAA observer program that the vessel’s CoC is no longer valid;
4) Revoke the vessel’s ACSA Exemption Letter from classification /and / or loadline
Each action or decision by the OCMI / COTP is subject to reconsideration and appeal if the
vessel operator or owner is aggrieved. Appeals shall follow the process established above
under “Appeals.” If after these actions, the vessel owner continues to demonstrate
non-compliance with the ACSA program, the Coast Guard OCMI may recommend to the
District Commander that the vessel be disenrolled from the ACSA program.
The OCMI commences the disenrollment process with a brief to the District Commander on
the recommendation to disenroll a vessel from the ACSA program. If the District
Commander decides to disenroll an ACSA vessel based on the recommendation of the OCMI,
an official letter will be sent to the vessel owner and will be scanned into the official Coast
Guard database. The disenrollment letter will include the procedure for reconsideration and
appeal of the District Commander’s decision.
Note: a vessel voluntarily going into lay-up status will not be disenrolled. Vessels in lay-up
are not required to be in substantial compliance but must complete all ACSA exams prior to
being placed back into active service.
Dockside and At-Sea Enforcement Options
Enforcement Posture for Items not Related to ACSA
As ACSA vessels are commercial fishing industry vessels, use of well-established OCMI /
COTP authorities such as vessel termination authority found in 46 CFR Part 28.65 and
Captain of the Port Authority found 33 CFR 160.111should be considered the primary option
for compelling compliance with items required by 46 CFR Part 28 or when a vessel has an
especially hazardous condition on board.
Notifications of Operational Controls Imposed on ACSA Vessels
The OCMI shall notify appropriate Coast Guard offices (Commandant CVC-3, Thirteenth
District, Seventeenth District, Sector Puget Sound, Sector Anchorage, etc.) when an ACSA
vessel is either terminated, issued a Captain of the Port Order, issued a no-sail CG-835, or has
its Exemption Letter pulled.
15
ACSA Guidance
A – Administration
Interval
Reference
o 1. ACSA Exemption Letter
❑ ACSA Exemption Renewal Exam
— Confirm a renewal request letter is on file with
Sector
— USCG Examiner endorses Renewal Examination
block on existing letter.
❑ ACSA Mid-Period Exam
— Confirm the ACSA Exemption Letter is on board and
valid.
— USCG Examiner endorses ACSA Mid-Period
Examination block.
Annual
ACSA
Guide
o 2. Commercial Fishing Vessel Decal and Certificate of
Compliance (COC).
❑ If conducted by a 3rd party organization
— Confirm a valid COC was issued within the past 2
years.
— Confirm a valid Commercial Fishing Vessel Decal
was issued within the past 2 years.
❑ If conducted by the Coast Guard
— Exemption letter will be endorsed as satisfying the
requirement for completion of the COC Exam.
— Applicable items listed in the CFIVS Exam Book
(CG-5587), and its supplement (CG-5587B)
examined as part of each ACSA Exemption Renewal
and Mid-Period Exam.
Annual
CG-5587
CG-5587B
ACSA
Guide
Annex 2
o 3. Valid Load Line Certificate? ___Yes ____No
❑ Issued by _________________________________
Issue date _____________Exp. _______________
Annual endorsement date___________________
Annual
ACSA
Guide
16
ACSA Guidance
o 4. The following logged entries must be verified/signed by
the Captain or Chief Engineer as appropriate:
❑ Drills & training (may refer to drill records for details)
❑ Watertight door status and maintenance (may refer to
watertight door status log)
❑ Testing of factory sump pumps & interlocks (when
installed)
❑ Weekly bilge alarm testing
Annual
ACSA
Guide
o 5. Station Bill Designates each person’s station &
responsibilities
❑ Fire
❑ Flooding
__Designates crewmembers to set watertight boundaries
__Designates a crewmember(s) to operate dewatering
equipment
❑ Abandon ship
__Survival craft assignments
❑ Person overboard
Note: Safety sensitive duties should not fall primarily on
untrained fish processors.
o 6. Licensing Must have a Master, Mate, Chief Engineer, and
Assistant Engineer; with appropriate endorsements for the
tonnage and horsepower of the vessel to which they are sailing
on.
❑ If vessel has been approved for automation in lieu of
Assistant Engineer, automation check list must be used
(see Annex 7)
Annual
ACSA
Guide
17
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Exemption Letter. An ACSA vessel is issued an ACSA Exemption Letter that is valid
for no more than two years from the date of issue. This letter states the date the vessel
completed the ACSA examination and the expiration date of the exemption. A fishing
vessel safety decal shall also be issued at this time and will be issued for a period of two
years.
● The ACSA mid-period examination must be completed 60 days either side of the mid-
period due date listed in the letter. When completed, the exemption letter will be
endorsed confirming the completion of this mid-period examination.
2. Certificate of Compliance Examination. Part of the mid-period examination is to
examine annual Certificate of Compliance examination (Fishing Vessel Safety and
pollution requirements), and when complete, the exemption letter will be endorsed
confirming the completion of this examination.
3. Load Line Certificate. Ensure the certificate has been endorsed by the classification
society surveyor and ensure a copy is made and scanned into MISLE.
4. Expired Exemption Letters. When an Exemption Letter Expires or when a vessel fails to
comply with the conditions of the exemption (e.g., failed to complete the required
dry-dock exam) the Exemption is no longer valid. The vessel is not authorized to operate
as a fish processing vessel producing products listed as “beyond minimal processing” in
Annex (1). If a vessel engages in processing without a valid Classification Certificate or
exemption, the vessel's operations may be terminated and the owner subject to a fine.
5. Substantial Compliance. Certain deficiencies may pose an unacceptable risk to a vessel.
For example, discrepancies in vessel stability and water tightness. These discrepancies
may be written with a requirement to clear them prior to departure, prior to receiving
credit for the dry-dock or prior to conducting processing aboard the vessel. When these
deficiencies go uncorrected beyond the due date the vessel does not substantially comply
with ACSA and the Exemption(s) under the agreement are no longer valid.
6. Lay-up. ACSA Vessel Owners may request a vessel remain in the ACSA program in
lay-up status when the vessel is expected to remain inactive past examination due dates.
See Annex 8 for an example Lay-up request. While the vessel is in lay-up status it may
not be placed into service until all exams are complete and the vessel is returned to service
as a catcher-processor or removed from the ACSA program.
18
ACSA Guidance
B - Stability
o 1. Stability Instructions
❑ Examine Stability Letter and Addendum
❑ Identifies the location of loading mark and draft marks
❑ Ensure master and engineer are familiar with stability
instructions and addendum
o 2. Stability Addendum. Examine stability addendum or
LL-11D (on vessels with a load line) to ensure it identifies
the following:
❑ Watertight bulkheads
❑ Watertight closures (location, size & type)
❑ Weather-tight closures (location, size & type)
❑ Coamings and vents (heights and locations)
❑ Automatic closure devices, operating stations for doors,
hatches, scuttles, chutes, tank vents.
❑ Ventilation devices located on the main deck or above
❑ Sea valves: location, size, type, and remote operating
stations.
❑ Size and number of freeing ports and drain lines provided.
o 3. 5 Year Stability Review
❑ Not greater than 5 years since last inclining or verification
of stability by deadweight survey.
❑ Stability letter reviewed by Marine Safety Center
o 4. Factory Sump Pumps
❑ Examine calculations to ensure sufficient capacity on
each side of the factory equals or exceeds the maximum
inflow rate as determined by a naval architect.
❑ If no sump pumps are used because freeing ports and /or
scuppers are used, this must be listed in the stability
addendum.
o 5. Stability Training
❑ Unlicensed Masters have completed USCG accepted
Stability Training (NPFVOA or AMSEA).
Implementation by December 31 2025.
Annual
Annual
Every
5 Years
Annual
46 CFR
28.530
ACSA Guide
Section B
or
LL-11D
MSC
Guidance
ACSA Guide
Section B
46 USC 4502
(g)(1)
19
ACSA Guidance
General Policy Discussion
General Requirements for this Section. ACSA vessels must follow vessel stability
requirements as provided in 46 CFR 28.500. Furthermore, stability addendums as described
below must be developed and maintained as described in paragraphs (2) and (4) of this
section. ACSA stability reports are required to be reviewed every five years by the Coast
Guard Marine Safety Center as detailed below.
Inspection Notes
1. Stability Instructions. ACSA vessel stability must meet the requirements of 46 CFR
28.530. Additionally, the stability instructions will identify the location of a maximum draft
mark to be located at the vessel’s mid-length and identify departure conditions to be checked
prior to departure. Copies of Stability Instructions (including Addendums) and
Inclining/Deadweight Survey will be entered in MISLE, and hard copies will be maintained
by to Sector Puget Sound as the custodian of vessel files.
2. Stability Addendum. An addendum to the above Stability Instructions shall be prepared.
Any changes, alterations or additions made to any of the items listed in the stability addendum
must be approved through the naval architect who issued the stability instructions and must be
brought to the attention of the local OCMI. The stability addendum will include:
● A list of all watertight bulkheads in the hull structure including size and type of watertight
closures in each such bulkhead.
● A tabulation of all weather-tight closures: doors, hatches, scuttles, chutes, tank vents, and
ventilation devices main deck or above. Each will be identified by type, size and location
annotated to identify any automatic closure devices and operating stations.
● Coamings and vent heights will be identified. Alternately, this information may be
presented on deck plans and elevations.
● Tabulation of through-hull fittings including location, size, type, and remote operators, if
any.
3. Five Year Stability Review. Within five years of entering the ACSA program, vessels
were required to complete lightship determination in accordance with 46 CFR 28.535. At
each five (5) year anniversary of the inclining experiment, a new inclining experiment and
up-to-date stability instructions will be required, unless the validity of existing data and
stability instructions can be verified by deadweight survey and examinations in compliance
with 46 CFR 28.501(c) and (d). Stability test procedures should be prepared in accordance
with MSC Plan Review Guidelines H2-01 and be submitted to MSC at least two weeks prior
to the test date for approval, when applicable. MSC Guidelines for commercial fishing vessel
stability should be followed. The final decision pertaining to the type of test required will be
at the discretion of the cognizant OCMI.
20
ACSA Guidance
4. Processing space sump pumps. The capacity of the sump pumps on each side of the
vessel must be capable of dewatering at the rate of water introduced into the factory space.
Calculations must be developed as part of the stability review process to ensure adequate
dewatering capacity and included in the Addendum.
Unique arrangements regarding the capacity or number of sump pumps may be permitted at
the discretion of the OCMI. For example, if no sump pumps are used (e.g., freeing ports
and/or scuppers only), this shall be identified in the vessel’s stability addendum, and
information shall be provided as to the number and size of the freeing ports.
21
ACSA Guidance
C - Drydock and Internal Structural Exam
Interval
Reference
o 1. Propeller(s)
o 2. Stern bushing(s)
o 3. Sea connections
o 4. Weldments. Visually examine condition of all welds for
(1) Washed out welds, (2) Cracking, (3) Excess pitting/corrosion
o 5. Shell Plating. Visually examine the condition of all shell
plating which constitutes the watertight envelope.
Twice in
5 years
not to
exceed a
3-year
interval
46 CFR
61.20-5
NVIC
7-68
o 6. Sea Chests
❑ Open for examination
❑ Check all welds, plating and thru -hull penetrations
5 yrs
46 CFR
61.20-5
o 7. Sea Strainers. Open for examination and clean
5 yrs
46 CFR
61.20-5(b)
o 8. Sea and Overboard Valves
❑ All valves within 6 inches and below of the deepest load
waterline must be opened for examination and examined:
(1) Seats (2) Guides (3) Body (4) Stem
❑ Valves located as close as possible to the side shell plating
❑ Valves are steel, bronze or other approved material
❑ Non-return valves removed and inspected
❑ Sea chest valves must be accessible from deck plate level
without the use of reach rods.
❑ If deck plates cover or block access to sea valves, smaller
access plates must be installed to provide access to valve
handle and must be labeled
5 yrs
46 CFR
42.15-60
61.20-5
ABS rules
4-4-2/19
46 CFR
56.50-95
o 9. Valves for emergency bilge suction (if equipped)
❑ Open for examination and examined
❑ Entering space below the deck plates to open/close valves is
avoided
❑ If large plates are above valves, smaller access plates must be
installed to provide access and must be labeled
5 yrs
46CFR
61.20-5(b)
22
ACSA Guidance
C - Drydock and Internal Structural Exam
Interval
Reference
o 10. Internal Examination of Integral Fuel Oil Tanks
List or diagram of fuel tanks examined.
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
_______________________________________
5 yrs
46 CFR
91.43-1
o 11. Examination of internal spaces
List or diagram of spaces examined provided.
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
❑ __________________________________________
Twice in
5 years
not to
exceed a
3-year
interval
46 CFR
91.40-3a
o 12. Keel Coolers
Twice in
5 years
not to
exceed a
3-year
interval
46 CFR
56.50-96
23
ACSA Guidance
C - Drydock and Internal Structural Exam
Interval
Reference
o 13. Ground Tackle
❑ Ensure suitable for vessel
❑ Anchors and chain / wire rope ranged
❑ Operational test of windless and chain locker pumping
arrangements.
❑ Chain to be gauged; Maximum wastage allowed is 12%
5 yrs
ABS
Rules
Part 2,
Chap. 2
o 14. Hull Markings
❑ Examine fore and aft draft marks
❑ Examine ACSA Maximum Loading Marks
— Horizontal white mark 12 inches long,1 inch wide
— Permanently marked by weld bead, punch marks or flat
bar
— Location as identified in the addendum to the stability
letter
— Port and starboard sides
❑ Examine Maximum Loading marks
Twice in
5 years
not to
exceed a
3-year
interval
46CFR
97.40-10
24
ACSA Guidance
General Policy Discussion
General Requirements for this Section. ACSA vessel owners or operators are responsible
for preparing the hull, through-hull fittings, shaft(s), propeller(s), rudder, tanks, voids, and
other confined spaces, as appropriate, for required hull examinations and internal structural
examination (ISE). This includes cleaning, disassembling, gas freeing, testing for toxicity,
and ventilating.
Owners will notify the local OCMI 30 days in advance of all scheduled dry-docking. The
fully qualified marine inspector should normally conduct the examinations in the company of
a vessel representative (port engineer, ship's officer, etc.), as well as any other interested
parties or agencies (a classification society surveyor, an insurance underwriter, a shipyard
representative, etc.). Whether accomplished in one visit or over a period of time, each
particular exam should consist of a careful inspection of all accessible parts of the vessel's
structure, fittings, and appurtenances, as appropriate.
● Deficiencies. Deficiencies should be called to the attention of the owner's representative
at once. When deemed necessary, the inspector should note requirements for correction of
deficiencies on Form CG-835. Discussion of the vessel's condition and alternate methods
of repair should result in adequate repairs with the least disagreement over methods and
extent of repair.
● Repairs. Standards for repairs to the hull, framing, and other structural members are
found Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 7-68, and shall be completed
consistent with principles of good marine practice.
● Replacement or Additions. For replacement or addition of structural members, ABS
rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters will be utilized as the
accepted standard for all issues related to the watertight envelope and subdivision.
The marine inspector must be satisfied that the vessel can operate safely. In cases of severe
damage, controversy, or unusual circumstances beyond the inspector's experience, the OCMI
should be notified immediately.
Drydock Intervals. The ACSA program is intended to have enrolled vessels meet alternate
standards for classification and load line, especially as it relates to the inspection of the hull
and structure of the watertight envelop.
● Vessels without Load Lines: Each vessel will be dry-docked, and an internal structural
examination (ISE) conducted a minimum of 2 times in any 5-year period with a maximum
interval of 3 years.
● Vessels with Load Lines: Under longstanding classification rules, vessels which are both
classed and load lined are required to be drydocked and have internal structural exams
(ISE) conducted twice in any 5-year period with a maximum interval of 3 years. As such,
25
ACSA Guidance
ACSA vessels with a valid load line certificate must meet the same inspection interval for
drydocking and ISE as required for classed vessels.
— Coordination with Class: The OCMI will make every effort to coordinate closely
with class surveyors for all dry dockings and internal structural examinations of
load lined vessels enrolled in the ACSA program.
Dry Dock Extension Requests. Dry-dock extension requests may be granted by the
cognizant Officer In-Charge Marine Inspection (OCMI) on a case-by case basis for
circumstances beyond the owner’s control and will be granted in only the most unusual of
circumstances. Examples of unusual circumstances are the sudden unavailability of drydock
space or circumstances clearly beyond the owner's control. Singularly, financial hardship is
not a valid reason for granting a drydock extension.
To make a drydock request, the vessel owner must submit a written request (or email) to the
OCMI attesting that the vessel is in suitable condition for operation during the period of the
extension. The request must include an assessment of the hull, machinery, tail-shaft(s),
steering and thru-hull fittings.
The OCMI will also consider the following in making a determination:
● Historical condition of the hull during past haul-outs
● Outstanding deficiencies related to the hull, tail-shaft, or thru-hull fittings.
● Recent marine casualty events (groundings, etc.) involving the hull, tail-shaft, or thru-hull
fittings.
● Whether the vessel has been operating in ice.
● Whether a marine inspector shall attend the vessel to ascertain the vessel’s condition.
— At a minimum, a marine inspector shall interview the chief engineer and/or the
master, to obtain their opinions on the condition of the vessel's hull, tail shaft(s),
and associated machinery.
For extension requests greater than 60 days, an underwater inspection report is required.
The OCMI may grant a drydock extension for 150 days.
Notifications to OCMI regarding Emergency Hull Repairs
The vessel owner will notify the local OCMI as soon as possible for any unplanned or
emergency dry dockings or hull repairs.
26
ACSA Guidance
Inspection Notes
1-6. None
7. Sea and Overboard Valves. Valves of ordinary cast iron and wafer type valves are not
acceptable. Valves employing resilient material to seal must be "Category A". If butterfly
valves are used, they must be of the lug type.
8. None
9. None
10. Internal Structural Examination of Integral Fuel Tanks. Examine side shell,
bulkhead, tank tops, frames, welds for wastage and damage. The number of tanks that must
be opened for examination is determined by 46 CFR 91.43-1.
11. Internal Structural Examination. Examine side shell, bulkhead, tank tops, frames,
welds for wastage and damage.
12. Keel Coolers. To be developed.
13. Ground Tackle. Anchors and chain are to be ranged, examined and the required
complement and condition confirmed. The chain locker, hawse pipes, chain stoppers and
anchor windless are to be examined. Pumping arrangements of the chain locker shall
operationally tested.
Chains are to be gauged and renewed in cases where their mean diameter is 12% or more
below the original required nominal size.
Installed anchoring systems that do not meet the ABS standard are acceptable (grandfathered)
until they no longer function or have deteriorated beyond a reasonable standard. When a
grandfathered anchoring system is replaced (rather than just repaired), the new anchoring
system must meet ABS standards for ground tackle.
14. Hull Markings. Maximum loading mark location is provided via the stability addendum
and is described in terms of mid-length location by frame number and distance (in inches)
from the molded main deck line to the bottom mark.
The loading mark amidship shall be examined. The mark will be a horizontal white line 12
inches long, one inch wide, and centered on the listed location. The line will be permanently
outlined port and starboard by weld bead, punch marks or flat bar.
27
ACSA Guidance
D- Hull thickness gauging
Interval
References
o 1. Periodic gauging requirement
❑ Obtain copy of gauging report
❑ Gauging shall include, but not limited to the following:
— Three transverse sections in the midship 0.5L
— Internals of the fore and after saltwater peak tanks
— Wind and water strakes, port and stbd, full length
— All exposed main deck plating & superstructure deck
— Two shots on each bottom plate at the discretion of the
attending Marine Inspector
— Sea chests
— Other suspected areas throughout the hull.
5 yrs
ABS Rules
7-3-2
NVIC 7-68
General Policy Discussion
Wastage. Wastage shall not exceed 25% of original plate thickness, unless it can be shown by
calculation that the wasted plate continues to exceed ABS minimum standards.
Original Scantlings. If original scantlings are not known, the OCMI, in consultation with the
naval architect, shall make a reasonable estimate of the original scantlings and document in
MISLE as a Special Inspection note.
Inspection Notes
1. Hull Audio Gauging
Hull and main structural member thickness gauging should be conducted for initial
consideration of exemption, and at alternating scheduled dry docks thereafter. At the
discretion of the cognizant OCMI, may be required more frequently. Gauging shall include,
but not be limited to:
● Three transverse sections in the midship 0.5L;
● Internal of the fore and after peak tanks;
● Wind and water strakes, port and starboard, full length;
● All exposed main deck plating and superstructure deck plating;
● At least two shots on each bottom plate at the discretion of the attending Marine Inspector;
● Plating of sea chest; and,
● Other suspect areas throughout the hull.
28
ACSA Guidance
E - Tail shaft and rudder examinations
Interval
References
o 1. Each tail shaft must be drawn & visually inspected as follows:
46 CFR
❑ Single tail shafts
Twice in
5 yrs
61.20-17(b)
❑ Multiple shafts
5 yrs
61.20-17(c)
❑ Tail shafts with oil lubricated bearings
need not be pulled as long as each of the following is done:
Need not
be pulled
61.20-17(e)
— Tail shaft bearing clearances at each dry-dock
— Seal assemblies examined at each dry-dock
Each
dry-dock
— Analysis of tail shaft oil lubricant in accordance with
manufacturer's recommendations.
Minimum
every
6 months
— NDT tapered tail shaft and keyway in place (if fitted)
5 yrs
— NDT coupling bolts and flange for props with coupling in
place (if fitted).
When
removed
❑ Tail shafts with inaccessible portions fabricated of materials
resistant to corrosion by sea water, or fitted with a continuous
liner, or a sealing gland which prevents sea water from contacting
the shaft.
5 yrs
61.20-17(d)
o 2. Tail Shaft Exam Item:
❑ Tail shafts with fitted keys
— NDT of forward 1/3 of the shaft's taper section and keyway
— Visual examination of entire shaft
❑ Tail shafts with a propeller fitted by means of coupling flange
— NDT coupling flange, fillet at propeller end, coupling bolts
— Visual examination of entire shaft
See D 1.
For
intervals
61.20-18(b)
61.20-18(c)
o 3. Rudder and Rudder Shaft Examination, to include but not
limited to the following:
❑ Ensure rudder bearing clearances are within manufacturer's
specifications.
Twice in
5 yrs not
to exceed
3 yr int.
ABS Rules
Part 3-2-11
❑ Rudder plating, welds, water leakage
❑ Rudder stocks, and if fitted with a tapered stock, the keyways,
keys and locking nut
❑ Pintles
❑ Gudgeons.
❑ Coupling bolts, if fitted with flange couplings
❑ Rudder supporting structure
❑ Skegs, fairwaters/fairings, shoe, pieces, carrier, and anti-lifting
devices, if fitted
When
removed
29
ACSA Guidance
o 4. Examination requirements for tail shaft bearing wear-down
(Check Applicable Box)
❑ Non-rubber water lubricated bearings must be refurbished as
follows:
— Propelling machinery located amidships:
For shaft diameters
After stern tube bearing refurbished
Greater than
Less than or equal to
When clearance worn down to
229 mm (9 in)
6.4 mm (.025 in)
229 mm (9 in)
305 mm (12 in)
7.95 mm (0.3125 in)
305 mm (12 in)
9.53 mm (0.375 in)
— Propelling machinery located aft:
For shaft diameters
After stern tube bearing refurbished
Greater than
Less than or equal to
When clearance worn down to
229 mm (9 in)
4.8 mm (.1875 in)
229 mm (9 in)
305 mm (12 in)
6.35 mm (0.25 in)
305 mm (12 in)
7.93 m (0.3125 in)
❑ Rubber water lubricated bearings must be refurbished when any
water groove is ½ the original depth.
❑ Oil lubricated bearings must be rebushed when deemed
necessary by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection. The
manufacturer's recommendation shall be considered in making
this determination.
Twice in
5 yrs not
to exceed
3 yr
interval
46 CFR
61.20-23(a)
61.20-23(a)(1)
61.20-23(a)(2)
61.20-23(b)
61.20-23(c)
Inspection Notes
1. Tail Shaft Examination Intervals
Each examination and test prescribed by these sections must be conducted in accordance with
46 CFR 61.20-15 in the presence of a Coast Guard Marine Inspector.
A lubricant that demonstrates the corrosion inhibiting properties of oil when tested in
accordance with ASTM D 665 (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 61.03-1) is considered to
be equivalent to oil for the purposes of the tail shaft examination interval.
Except as provided in paragraphs (4-5), of this section, each tail shaft must be examined twice
within any 5 year period. No more than 3 years may elapse between tail shaft exams.
Tail shafts on vessels fitted with multiple shafts must be examined at an interval not to exceed
once every 5 years.
30
ACSA Guidance
Tail shafts with inaccessible portions fabricated of materials resistant to corrosion by sea
water, or fitted with a continuous liner or a sealing gland which prevents sea water from
contacting the shaft, must be examined once every 5 years if they are constructed or fitted
with a taper, keyway, and propeller designed in accordance with the American Bureau of
Shipping standards to reduce stress concentrations or are fitted with a flanged propeller.
Accessible portions of tail shafts must be examined visually during every dry dock
examination for credit.
Tail shafts with oil lubricated bearings, including bearings lubricated with a substance
considered to be equivalent to oil under ASTM D need not be drawn for examination--
1. If tail shaft bearing clearance readings are taken whenever the vessel undergoes a dry
dock examination or underwater survey;
2. If the inboard seal assemblies are examined whenever the vessel undergoes a dry dock
examination or underwater survey;
3. If an analysis of the tail shaft bearing lubricant is performed semiannually in
accordance with the lubrication system manufacturer's recommendations to determine
bearing material content or the presence of other contaminants; and
4. If for tail shafts with a taper, the propeller is removed and the taper and the keyway (if
fitted) are nondestructively tested at intervals not to exceed 5 years; or
5. For tail shafts with a propeller fitted to the shaft by means of a coupling flange, the
propeller coupling bolts and flange radius are nondestructively tested whenever they
are removed or made accessible in connection with overhaul or repairs.
2. Tail Shaft Examination Items
On tail shafts with a taper, keyway (if fitted), and propeller designed in accordance with
American Bureau of Shipping standards to reduce stress concentrations, the forward 1/3 of the
shaft's taper section must be nondestructively tested in addition to a visual examination of the
entire shaft.
On tail shafts with a propeller fitted to the shaft by means of a coupling flange, the flange, the
fillet at the propeller end, and each coupling bolt must be nondestructively tested when
removed, in addition to a visual examination of the entire shaft.
3. Rudder and Rudder Shaft Examinations
Examinations shall include, but are not limited to the following items:
● rudder plating, weldments, water leakage:
● rudder stocks, and if fitted with a tapered stock, the keyways, keys and locking nut:
● pintles,
● gudgeons,
● coupling bolts, if fitted with flange couplings; and,
● rudder supporting structure, incl. skegs, fairwaters/fairings, shoe pieces, carrier, and
anti-lifting devices, if fitted.
31
ACSA Guidance
Rudder bearing clearances are to be measured and compared to manufacturer’s specifications.
If specifications for metal bearings are not available, the clearance is not to be less than d
i
/
1000 + 0.04 inches on the diameter, where d
i
is the inner diameter of the bushing in inches.
For non-metallic bearing material, the bearing clearance is to be specially determined
considering the material’s swelling and thermal expansion properties, but in no case less than
0.06 inches on diameter.
Strong and effective rudder stops are to be fitted. Where adequate positive stops are provided
within the gear, structural stops will not be required.
Suitable means of locking the nuts are to be provided for flange couplings. For a tapered
stock coupling, the locking nut is to be fitted with an effective locking device.
4. Tail Shaft Clearance, Bearing Weardown.
Non-rubber water lubricated bearings must be refurbished as follows:
Propelling machinery located amidships:
For shaft diameters
After stern tube bearing refurbished
Greater than
Less than or equal to
When clearance worn down to
229 mm (9 in)
6.4 mm (.025 in)
229 mm (9 in)
305 mm (12 in)
7.95 mm (0.3125 in)
305 mm (12 in)
9.53 mm (0.375 in)
Propelling machinery located aft:
For shaft diameters
After stern tube bearing refurbished
Greater than
Less than or equal to
When clearance worn down to
229 mm (9 in)
4.8 mm (.1875 in)
229 mm (9 in)
305 mm (12 in)
6.35 mm (0.25 in)
305 mm (12 in)
7.94 m (0.3125 in)
Rubber water lubricated bearings must be refurbished when any water groove is ½ the original
depth.
Oil lubricated bearings must be rebushed when deemed necessary by the Officer in Charge,
Marine Inspection. The manufacturer's recommendation shall be considered in making this
determination.
Kort Nozzles
These systems will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Vessels with these systems will
submit detailed examination procedures to the OCMI at the time of dry dock.
32
ACSA Guidance
F - Watertight and Weathertight Integrity
Interval
Reference
o 1. All watertight/weather tight closures as listed in the
stability addendum or ABS LL-11d:
❑ Closures clearly labeled/identified & correlate to stability
addendum or ABS LL-11d
❑ Labeled “Opening authorized for transit only – keep closed at
sea”
❑ All dogs operable
__ Strike at least 1/3 of wedge without the use of a wrench
__ Dogs move downward for closure
❑ Chalk or light tested for fit and watertight integrity
❑ Seal not painted, badly cracked or deteriorated
❑ Examine sealing edge of closure frame.
__Door frame/door not warped/knife edge not painted
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section F
Discussion
ABS LL-11d
o 2. All closures listed in stability booklet addendum shall have
administrative controls for managing the status as listed
below:
❑ Closing watertight doors at sea enforced by master & mates.
❑ Detailed preventive maintenance schedule for each of the
closures listed.
❑ Written instructions for at-sea security watches.
❑ Each closure listed must include required closure status for at
least the following vessel conditions:
— When the vessel is in transit
— When the vessel is actively fishing/processing
— When idle on the fishing grounds
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section F
Discussion
33
ACSA Guidance
F - Watertight and Weathertight Integrity
Interval
Reference
o 3. Personnel access doors located on the main deck and
opening to the vessel’s interior in the aft 1/3L of the vessel
and other locations that pose a particular risk to down
flooding:
❑ If watertight door:
— Minimum coaming height 3 inches
— Shall be six-dog “quick acting” type
❑ If weathertight door
— Minimum coaming height 24 inches
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section F
Discussion
o 4. Factory space high water alarms
❑ Installed in each corner of the factory or
❑ Installed in an alternate arrangement approved by the OCMI
❑ Alarm at water level greater than 6 inches
❑ Time delay (up to 5 seconds) may be allowed
❑ Visual alarm
— Installed in the factory
— Installed at the machinery control flat
— Installed in the pilot house at pilot station instrument panel
❑ Distinctive indicator (not to be confused with general alarm)
❑ Audible alarm in pilot house
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section F
o 5. Vents
❑ Ensure vent heights are min 30 inches above the main deck
❑ Examine condition of closures
❑ Examine vent balls and seats
Fuel tank vents
❑ Inspect flame screen (minimum 30 X 30 mesh)
❑ operation and seating of ball check valves
Annual
46 CFR
42.15-50
56.50-85(a)7
&8
o 6. Below deck watertight doors, hatches and bulkheads
❑ Existing internal watertight subdivision shall be maintained
or restored to original condition
— Watertight bulkheads
— Bulkhead penetrations
— Watertight doors
Annual
ACSA
Guide
section F
34
ACSA Guidance
General Policy Discussion
General. A major focus of the ACSA Program is to ensure internal watertight subdivision
and maintain internal subdivision watertight integrity. If a particular hazard regarding the
status of watertight or weather-tight closures is identified during a vessel survey, an
appropriate engineering solution shall be developed by the owner or naval architect, to the
satisfaction of the OCMI.
Inspection Notes
1. Watertight and Weathertight Closures
All watertight doors through which the vessel crew may pass that are listed in the Stability
Instruction Addendum shall be fitted with a sign on both sides reading “Opening authorized
for transit only – keep closed at sea.” Similar signs shall be posted at all weather-tight doors
to buoyant volume spaces (as identified by Naval Architect).
2. Administrative Controls
Administrative controls shall be prepared to manage the status of watertight and weather-tight
closures listed in the Stability Instruction Addendum. As a minimum these controls shall
include:
- A detailed preventive maintenance schedule for watertight and weather-tight closures.
- Written instructions for at-sea security watches detailing periodic monitoring of the status of
all watertight and weather-tight closures listed in the Stability Instruction Addendum.
- A specific notation of required closure status shall be made for at least the following vessel
conditions: in transit; actively fishing/processing; or, idle on fishing grounds.
3. Personnel Access Doors
Quick acting watertight doors with a minimum 3” coaming are the preferred installation for
personnel access doors located on the main deck and opening to the vessel’s interior, in the aft
1/3L of the vessel. However, if weathertight doors are installed, the following additional
requirements must be met:
Coamings shall be a minimum of 24 inches in height; and a “door ajar” alarm (both audio and
visual) must be installed at the pilothouse operating station. A delay feature of up to 60
seconds may be installed to avoid interference with vessel operations.
If a particular hazard regarding the status of watertight or weather-tight closures is identified
during a vessel survey, an appropriate engineering control shall be developed by the owner
and/or naval architect, to the satisfaction of the OCMI.
4. Factory Space High Water Alarm
35
ACSA Guidance
A factory space high water alarm will be installed near each corner of the factory space to
sense water accumulation. If it is not practicable to install alarms in all corners due to space
limitations, alternate arrangements may be approved by the OCMI.
The sensors will be positioned to alarm at levels greater than 6 inches deep. Time delays (up
to 5 sec.) may be incorporated to prevent false alarm due to surge or splash conditions. A
visual alarm shall be installed in the factory and at the machinery space control flat. Both
visual and audio indicators shall be installed in the pilot house. The visual and audio alarm in
the pilot house will include a distinctive indicator at the normal piloting station instrument
panel.
5. None
6. Internal Watertight Integrity. The use of quick acting watertight doors in internal
watertight subdivision bulkheads is strongly encouraged, as other types of watertight doors
have proven to be unreliable. Marine Inspectors shall also ensure that bulkhead penetrations
due to cables, piping and vents are properly addressed.
36
ACSA Guidance
G - Machinery systems
Interval
Reference
o 1. Fuel System
Fuel supply piping on the pressure side must be:
❑
Seamless piping of steel, annealed copper or brass or tubing or
nickel copper meeting the requirements for materials and for
thickness
❑ Non-metallic flexible hose allowed only where flexibility is
required to prevent damage from vibration. Such hose must not
be more than 30 inches in length.
❑ Fuel / hydraulic hoses meet J-1942 or SAE J-1942-1.
❑ Hose fittings meet SAE J-1475.
❑ Approved fire sleeve material as listed in the SAE qualified
hose list installed over approved hose.
Annual
46 CFR
56.60
56.50-70
(a)(2)
56.60-25
(b)
o 2. Sight gauges on tanks
❑ Must be welded or brazed to the tank
❑ Must be heat resistant material
❑ Protected from mechanical damage
❑ Both ends of sight gauge must be fitted with devices that will
automatically close should the gauge break
Annual
58.50-10
(a)(6)
o 3. Main Propulsion Machinery Testing
❑ Obtain copy of the written test procedures
❑ Test automatic shut-down on over-speed
*(if installed)
❑ Test low lube oil pressure alarm and shut down
❑ Test jacket water high temperature alarm
❑ Maintained to manufacturer’s specifications
Annual
46CFR58.
05-10
Table
62.35-50
ABS
Rules:
4-7-1
37
ACSA Guidance
o 4. Electrical and Auxiliary Prime Mover Testing
❑ Obtain copy of written test procedures
❑ . Test over speed device so that the speed cannot exceed the
maximum rated speed by more than 15% If automated,
provide calibration standards set by the manufacturer. *
❑ Test alarm and shutdown of low lube oil sensor
❑ Test jacket water high temperature alarm
❑ Maintained to manufacturer’s specifications
Annual
46CFR
111.12-1
(b)&(c)
o 5. Reverse Power Relay Test Generators
Test reverse power relays or mechanical interlock.
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section G
o 6. Preventative Maintenance Records
❑ At the request of the examiner the owner/operator will provide
preventive maintenance records for propulsion and electrical
generation machinery.
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section G
o 7. Fire safety hazard survey
❑ Conduct survey of machinery spaces to identify fire safety
hazards.
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section G
o 8. Electrical wiring on main engines
❑ Electrical cables connecting starting batteries to main
propulsion starters
❑ Cables connecting main propulsion engines to generators
— Must meet IEEE Std 45, IEC 92-3,
MIL-C-24640A or MIL-C-24643A(2)
— The use of electrical welding cables is not authorized
Annual
46CFR
111.60-
1(a)
38
ACSA Guidance
o 9. Vital System Piping:
❑ Examine fuel oil for main propulsion / emergency generators
❑ Examine lubricating oil systems
❑ Examine cooling water for main propulsion / emergency
generators
❑ Examine bilge and ballast systems
__Verify the operation of fixed bilge pump(s) to ensure they are
capable of self-priming and taking suction from the furthest
spaces from where the pumps are installed.
❑ Examine starting and control air systems
❑ Examine fire main and firefighting systems
Annual
46CFR
56.07-5(f)
56.50-1
56.50-60
56.50-80
56.50-95
56.50-57
56.50-15
56.70
39
ACSA Guidance
o 10. Non-metal expansion joints
❑ External: Examine for excessive wear, fatigue, deterioration,
damage, misalignment, improper flange to flange spacing, and
leakage
❑ When external examination reveals excessive wear or other
signs of deterioration or damage, internal examination must be
conducted
Annual
46 CFR
61.15-12
o 11. Pressure Vessels (Compressed air receivers >5 CF)
❑ Internal and external examination
❑ Data plate or stamped data is legible
❑ Hydrostatic testing unless examined internally by a marine
inspector & no defect found which would impair the safety
of the pressure vessel. As an alternative, ultrasonic testing
may be conducted on the lower 1/3 of the pressure vessel
and at the marine inspector's discretion.
❑ Relief Valves tested: Set to relieve at or below MAWP
5 yrs
5 yrs
Twice in
5 yrs
46 CFR
61.10-5
54.15-5
o 12. Guards and Exposed Hazards
❑ Each exhaust pipe within 15 feet of fuel, lube, or hydraulic oil
sources, must be insulated or otherwise guarded to prevent
ignition.
❑ Guards shall be installed in way of all rotating
machinery/equipment.
❑ No device used for hanging clothing or any other combustible
material, in way of heaters.
Twice in
5 yrs
46 CFR
28.215
40
ACSA Guidance
o 13. Electrical Systems
❑ There is no requirement or expectation that existing electrical
system installations will comply with the standards for
inspected vessels in wiring material and Marine Inspectors will
not require replacement of electrical cabling and wiring without
cause. Discovery of unsafe conditions will be a cause for
modifications to such equipment at the discretion of the Marine
Inspector. Any changes to electrical systems shall be in
accordance with requirements for inspected vessels.
❑ Power strips shall not be used, except for a temporary basis and
not used for general purpose power distribution. If used, they
must be rated for marine use and in no circumstance will daisy
chaining be allowed.
Twice in
5 yrs
UL
NFPA
41
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Fuel Hoses. All hoses carrying oil (fuel oil, lube oil, or hydraulic oil systems) located in
the engine room shall be fire resistant and shall comply with J-1942 standards. Push-lock
fittings are not acceptable. Exceptions to the 30 inch rule will be allowed on a case by case
basis.
2. Sight Gauges. Tubular gauge glasses, if fitted to diesel fuel tanks, must be of heat
resistant materials, adequately protected from mechanical damage, and provided at the tank
connections with devices that will automatically close in the event of rupture of the gauge or
gauge lines
3. None
4. None
5. Reverse Power Relay Testing. For reverse power relays slow the prime mover of the unit
in which you wish to test and verify that the RPR opens as designed. Technician reports
stating appropriate tests conducted and test results will be accepted as satisfying this
requirement.
6. Preventative Maintenance Program and Examination of Records. A documented
preventive maintenance program is required for vessels in the ACSA Program.
The material, design, construction, workmanship and arrangement of main propulsion and
electrical generation machinery and of each auxiliary, directly connected to the engines and
supplied as such, shall be maintained to the regularly scheduled preventive maintenance
standards as established by the manufacturer or the manufacturer’s authorized representative.
A written plan and or schedule is required and records of compliance with the plan and repair
records shall be checked by the Marine Inspector as part of scheduled visits.
7. Fire Hazard Surveys. Machinery spaces, escape scuttles, and egress routes shall be
maintained in reasonable state of cleanliness to reduce the risk of fire. Flammable materials
shall not be stored within machinery spaces or in escape scuttles. Scheduled examinations
shall include a survey in all machinery spaces and other spaces where flammable and
combustible materials are stored and used. At each examination a Coast Guard Marine
Inspector or dockside examiner and the vessel representative shall conduct a fire safety hazard
survey of the engine spaces to identify and remedy any additional fire safety hazards which
may exist, but are not specifically identified in the ACSA Program. Notwithstanding the need
for crew to conduct normal operations, special attention shall be given to maintaining
adequate egress paths from all compartments.
8. None
42
ACSA Guidance
9. Vital Piping Systems: The vessel owner will notify the local OCMI as soon as possible
for any unplanned or emergency repairs to vital piping systems listed in item 9.
It is not the intent of this inspection item to require wholescale replacement of all piping
systems. Existing systems can remain unless the piping is declared manifestly unsafe by the
attending marine inspector or piping is being repaired/replaced. Welding on vital piping
systems listed in item 9 must be with approved procedures using certified welders
10. Non-Metal Expansion Joints: Conduct an external exam for excessive wear, fatigue,
deterioration, damage, misalignment, improper flange to flange spacing, and leakage. When
external examination reveals excessive wear or other signs of deterioration or damage,
internal examination must be conducted . Non-metal expansion joints located below the
waterline must be replaced every ten years.
11. None
12. Guards and Exposed Hazards
Each exhaust pipe within 15 feet of fuel, lube, or hydraulic oil sources, must be insulated or
otherwise guarded to prevent ignition.
13. Electrical Systems
There is no requirement or expectation that existing electrical system installations will comply
with the standards for inspected vessels in wiring material and Marine Inspectors will not
require replacement of electrical cabling and wiring without cause. Discovery of unsafe
conditions will be a cause for modifications to such equipment at the discretion of the Marine
Inspector. Any changes to electrical systems shall be in accordance with requirements for
inspected vessels.
43
ACSA Guidance
H - Life Saving Equipment & Arrangements
Interval
Reference
o 1. Liferafts
❑ Liferafts approved under 46 CFR 160.151.
❑ Mounted so can be manually launched by one person.
Annual
ACSA
Guide Sect.
H 1
o 2. Liferaft Embarkation ladders
❑ Must be installed for each life raft embarkation station that is
five feet or more above the waterline in normal operating
conditions
❑ Embarkation stations provided with a means to affix
embarkation ladder to a welded pad eye or other suitable
structurally sound device
❑ Each embarkation ladder lowered and inspected
Annual
Sect. H 2
o 3. Immersion Suits
❑ Immersion suits maintained to manufactures specifications
❑ Each immersion suit is required to be fitted with a Coast Guard
approved strobe type PML.
Annual
NVIC
1-08
Sect. H 3
44
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Liferafts
Liferafts must meet SOLAS standards in design, materials, construction, workmanship and
testing. Life rafts meeting SOLAS standards will have approval number “160.151".
Any raft with a CG approval number of 160.151 is acceptable regardless of any other
approval numbers that may be listed.
All required liferafts will be mounted in a manner to be launched manually by a single person.
Subject to individual liferaft manufacturer approval, paddles for all Coast Guard approved
liferafts shall be of a material other than plastic.
Coast Guard or SOLAS approved embarkation ladders will be installed for each required
liferaft embarkation station that is five or more feet above the water line in normal operating
conditions.
2. Liferaft Embarkation Ladders
A chain ladder meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 160.017 may meet the requirement for a
liferaft station embarkation ladder, but MAY NOT be substituted for the required pilot
boarding ladder required under 50 CFR 600.504(d)(3). However a pilot boarding ladder
required under 50 CFR 600.504(d)(3) MAY meet the requirements of the liferaft embarkation
station.
The pilot boarding ladder required under 50 CFR 600.504(d)(3) MUST meet the construction
requirements of Regulation 17, Chapter V of the International Convention for the Safety of
Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 (TIAS 9700 and 1978 Protocol, TIAS 10009), or a substantially
equivalent national standard approved by letter from the Assistant Administrator, with
agreement with the USCG.
45
ACSA Guidance
I-Fixed Fire Fighting Equipment & Arrangements
Interval
References
o 1. Spaces requiring a fixed firefighting system
❑ Any space containing:
— Internal combustion engine greater than 50 hp
— An incinerator
— Gasoline storage tank(s) or other flammable materials
— Paint lockers over 60 cubic feet in volume
Annually
46 CFR
28.320(a)
o 2. Engineered fixed fire extinguishing systems for main
engineering spaces shall be:
❑ Installed in accordance with 46 CFR 76.15 and other appropriate
NFPA standards.
Annually
46 CFR 76.15
NVIC 6-72
o 3. Spaces protected by fixed CO2 systems OF NOT more than
300 lbs.
CO2 cylinders may be located inside the space protected.
❑ If cylinders are located inside the space protected:
— a heat actuator is required that will automatically operate in
addition to the remote pulls
❑ If cylinders are stored in a CO2 room:
— Room must be well ventilated
— Must not be located where ambient temp exceeds 130 deg. F
— Cylinders must be securely fastened and supported
❑ Controls must be located outside the space protected
❑ Not located in an area that could be cut off or made inaccessible
in the event of fire in the space protected
❑ Complete but simple instructions for operation of the system
must be located in a conspicuous place near pull boxes and at the
control station located at the cylinder location
❑ Alarm and time delay is required unless space is small and there
is suitable horizontal escape from the space
❑ Perform functional test
❑ Cylinders weighed
❑ System must alarm for at least 20 seconds before CO2 is
released
❑ Ventilation
— Protected spaces with mechanical ventilation must
automatically shut down on activation of the CO2 system.
— Means for closing all openings to the space protected must
be provided and must be able to be accomplished from
outside the space.
Annually
46 CFR
76.15-20(b)
76.15-10(a)
76.15-20(b)
76.15-20(a)
76.15-20(b)
76.15-20(d)
76.15-10(a)
76.15-10(h)
76.15-10(f)
76.15-35(a)
76.15-35(c)
46
ACSA Guidance
o 4. Spaces protected by fixed CO2 systems OF MORE than 300
pounds
❑ CO2 cylinders must be stored outside the space protected
❑ Controls must be located outside the space protected
❑ Not located in an area that could be cut off or made inaccessible
in the event of fire in the space protected
❑ Complete but simple instructions for the operation of the system
must be located in a conspicuous place near pull boxes and at the
control station located at the cylinder location
❑ Alarm and time delay is required
❑ Perform functional test
❑ Cylinders weighed
❑ System must alarm for at least 20 seconds before CO2 is
released into the space.
❑ Ventilation
— Protected spaces with mechanical ventilation must
automatically shut down on activation of the CO2 system.
— Means for closing all openings to the space protected must
be provided and must be able to be accomplished from
outside the space.
Annually
Annually
46 CFR
76.15-20(a)
76.15-10(a)
76.15-10(f)
76.15-35(a)
76.15-35(c)
o 5. Pre-engineered fire extinguishing systems
May be used in place of fixed CO2 systems provided they are
qualified by the restrictions and standards set forth in 46 CFR
28.320
❑ Spaces less than 33.98 cubic meters (1200 cubic ft.) that are
normally unoccupied i.e.:
— Small main engine spaces
— Paint / flammable storage lockers
❑ Must be approved by Commandant for the intended application
❑ Capable of manual activation from outside the space in addition
to any automatic actuation devices. Automatically shut down all
power ventilation to the space protected.
❑ A visible and audible alarm must sound at the vessel's operating
station, indicating discharge
Annually
46 CFR
28.320(d)
ACSA Guide
Section I
o 6. Heat detectors in spaces containing fixed gas fire
extinguishing systems
❑ Heat detector (rate of rise / maximum temperature) must be
installed in each space protected by a fixed gas fire extinguishing
system
Annually
46CFR
161.002
47
ACSA Guidance
o 7. Smoke Detectors for accommodation spaces
❑ Acceptable detectors include:
— Independent modular smoke detector:
Must meet UL-217 standards.
— Smoke actuated fire detecting unit:
Must be installed IAW 46CFR76.33.
Annually
ACSA Guide
section I
discussion
o 8. Structural fire protection
❑ A-0 boundaries must isolate all internal combustion machinery
spaces.
Annually
ACSA Guide
section I
discussion
o 9. Non-combustible insulation.
❑ Any insulation replaced in hidden spaces must be of
non-combustible material IAW 46CFR Subchapter Q.
❑ If foam insulation is replaced it must be USCG or ABS
approved material.
Annually
ACSA Guide
section I
discussion
48
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Enclosed spaces
2. Vessel specific fire extinguishing system: Installed in accordance with 46 CFR 76.15 and
other appropriate NFPA standards.
3-6. None
7. Smoke Detectors for Accommodation Spaces
Each accommodation space must be equipped with an independent modular smoke detector or
a smoke actuated fire detecting unit installed in accordance with 46 CFR 76.33.
Independent modular smoke detector must meet UL 217 and be listed as a “Single Station
Smoke Detector--Also suitable for use in Recreational Vehicles.”
Other fire, smoke, and/or heat detectors for accommodation spaces may be approved for use
by the local OCMI.
8. A-0 Boundaries
It is the intent of this requirement to assure there is an intact steel bulkhead in all machinery
spaces.
A-0 bulkheads or decks surrounding these machinery spaces must be composed of steel or
equivalent material, suitably stiffened and made intact with the main structure of the vessel,
such as the shell, structural bulkheads, and decks.
They must be so constructed that, if subjected to the standard fire test, they are capable of
preventing the passage of smoke and flame for 1 hour.
Machinery space bulkheads and decks shall remain intact at each cable and piping
penetrations. Deficiencies shall be corrected at the earliest opportunity.
All closures and vents in A-0 boundaries shall be constructed of steel or equivalent material.
All closures and vents shall be capable of being secured manually from outside the space.
9. Non-Combustible Insulation
Any exceptions are at the discretion of the local OCMI.
49
ACSA Guidance
J - Other Fire Fighting and Safety Equipment
Interval
Reference
o 1. Emergency Lighting
o Locations sufficient for emergency egress
o Test reserve power supply
o Installed to illuminate, control stations and main/emergency
switchboards
Annual
46 CFR
199.110, 46
CFR 112.43
ACSA
Section J
o 2. Portable fire/dewatering pump
❑ Must be independently powered
❑ Must be stowed outside the engine room
❑ Suction hoses must be capable of reaching into the bottom of
all spaces.
❑ Internal combustion engines must have a means of venting
the exhaust outside the space. (It is acceptable to install a
standpipe extending to the bilges for connection to the intake
of the portable dewatering pump)
❑ Sufficient suction hose w/foot valve to reach water from
highest lift
❑ Sufficient 1.5-inch fire hose to reach any part of the vessel
❑ Hose(s) fitted with nozzle of corrosion resistant material
capable of providing solid or straight stream, and spray
pattern
❑ Pump capable of producing two effective 40-foot streams
with “Y” gate valve from standard 1.5-inch fire hose
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section J
o 3. Firefighters’ Outfits
❑ Vessels with less than 26 people aboard shall have 2 outfits
❑ Vessels with 26 or more people aboard shall have 4 outfits
❑ NFPA Firefighter outfit shall include:
— One positive pressure SCBA
— Protective clothing with retro-reflective tape
— Rigid helmet
— Gloves
— Boots
— With attached lifeline
— Fire axe (or another appropriate tool)
❑ Each SCBA will be provided with two spare air bottles
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section J
46 CFR
96.35
50
ACSA Guidance
o 4. Crew training
❑ Each fire team member (as identified on the Emergency
Instructions as required by 46 CFR 28.265) who will wear
the firefighter outfits shall provide proof of Coast Guard
approved basic fire training.
Annual
46 CFR
28.265
o 5. Fire and Safety Plan
❑ Up to date Fire and Safety Plans
audited every 5 years
❑ General arrangement plans showing
— Each control station for controlling ships radios, main
navigation, emergency power, and where fire reporting
and fire control equipment are centralized
— Location of fire resisting bulkheads
— Location of alarms
— Location of extinguishing systems
— Location of portable fire extinguishers
— Means of access to different compartments and decks
— Ventilation system and location of ventilation shutdowns
and dampers
— Details of alarms systems
— Details of extinguishing systems
— Life raft embarkation stations
Annual
ACSA
Guide
Section J
46 CFR
91.55-5(d)
o 6. Freon detectors:
❑ Installed in spaces containing main receiver and compressors
❑ Portable Freon detectors shall also be on board
❑ Must be calibrated within the manufacture’s specifications.
Annual
ACSA
Guide
section J
o 7. CO2/Halon detection system
❑ Installed in any accommodation space where gas cylinders
are stored
❑ Test the function of the gas detection system
Annual
NFPA 12
Chapter
4.3.3.1.1
51
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Portable Fire / Dewatering Pump Arrangements
Each vessel must be equipped with an independently powered (independent of the ship’s
auxiliary power system) portable fire/dewatering pump. The portable pump and hoses must
be stowed outside the engine room.
Each pump will be provided with suction hose and strainers adequate to reach water sources
for either service and must be capable of picking up suction for the highest lift.
Correspondingly, discharge hose must be readily available for each service.
The pump shall be capable of producing two effective 40 foot streams, each from a standard
1.5 inches diameter lined commercial fitted with a corrosion resistant dual purpose nozzle
capable of providing a solid or straight stream, and a spray pattern
2. None
3. None
4. None
6. Freon Detectors: Freon Detectors are only required when Freon is used in freezer hold
systems and will not be required when used in applications such galley refrigerators and air
conditioners.
7. Carbon Dioxide Detectors: In any accommodation space housing carbon dioxide storage
cylinders, a carbon dioxide detector must be installed to protect the crew from the potential
build-up of carbon dioxide from leaking cylinders. A CO2 detector / alarm would be
acceptable if UL listed; however, there is presently no listed CO2 detection and/or alarm
equipment under the UL2075 standard. Therefore, the OCMI shall accept this equipment on a
case-by-case basis, or alternatively may accept an oxygen level detector. In the future, CO2
detectors having the UL listing may be required, if the gas detection manufacturers market a
listed device suitable for this application.
52
ACSA Guidance
K - Emergency Drills and Training
Interval
Reference
o 1. Emergency drills must be conducted by a trained
individual in the presence of a USCG Examiner, to include
but not limited to:
❑ Fire
❑ Flooding
__Includes setting of watertight boundaries
__Team members demonstrate ability to properly rig,
operate and dewater the most critical spaces below the
waterline
❑ Abandon ship
__ Including donning of immersion suits
❑ Person overboard
Annual
46 CFR
28.275
28.270
o 2. Required number of qualified drill conductors in crew
complement
Persons on board
Certified Drill Conductors
Less than 16
2
16-25
3
26-35
4
36 or more
Min. 5
Annual
ACSA Guide
Section K
53
ACSA Guidance
o 3. Record keeping of emergency drills and training
❑ Logged by the master
— Includes date of each drill
— Conducted not more than 30 days from previous drill
— Log should indicate those that did not participate and why
— Summary of what happened during the drill
— Must be maintained on board for 1 year and in the main
office for 3 years
❑ Records of drills and instruction include at least the
following contingencies:
— Abandon ship
— Launching survival craft
— Donning immersion suits or PFDs
— Making voice radio distress calls/using visual distress
signals
— Recover person overboard
— Activating general alarm
— Reporting inoperative alarm & fire detection systems
— Minimizing effects of accidental flooding
— Fighting a fire
— Donning firefighters’ outfits / SCBAs if equipped
Annual
ACSA Guide
Section K
46 CFR
28.270
o 4. Communications among crew
❑ Vessel has AMSEA or NPFVOA safety videos tapes /
CDs that provide training on emergency procedures for
non-English speaking crew.
Annual
ACSA Guide
Section K
54
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Emergency Drills. Drills must be conducted with the vessel's crew on board
2. Minimum Number of Drill Conductors and Sailing Short
At the outset of a voyage a vessel should "possess" the complement of certificated drill
conductors as stipulated in this section. In certain unusual circumstances, when vacancies
occur at or after the time the crew is required to be aboard, the vessel may sail short, provided
the vacancy was without the consent, fault, or collusion of the master, owner, or any other
person interested in the vessel, and the master has made a conscientious effort to find a
qualified replacement. In addition, the master must be satisfied that the vessel is safe to make
the intended voyage. Desertion, arrest, failure to join, hospitalization, etc., are considered to
be unusual circumstances and may be grounds for sailing short if the master considers the
remaining complement sufficient. However, at each port or place called at during the voyage
(including the port of departure), the master has an obligation to obtain qualified replacements
if they are available. The master need not obtain permission to sail short, but must report the
situation in writing within 12 hours of arrival at the port of destination. The master's decision
to sail short is subject to the OCMI's review and appropriate administrative action should be
taken if warranted.
3. Frequency and Record Keeping of Emergency Drills
All emergency drills and training shall be logged by the master of the vessel
Emergency drills shall be conducted at least once each 30 days and must cover all
contingencies listed in 46 CFR 28.270.
Emergency drill log entries must include the name and reason for missing the drill for each
person not participating in an emergency drill.
Drills must be conducted anytime a person with safety responsibilities is replaced.
Within each 30 days each person on board must have received instruction complying with 46
CFR 28.270.
4. Communications Among Crew
Every reasonable effort shall be made to ensure that all non-English speaking crew members
and fish processing personnel are familiar with their emergency responsibilities and duties.
North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners Association and Alaska Marine Safety Education
Association Spanish & Vietnamese language safety videos.
L – Emergency Communications and Navigation
Interval
References
55
ACSA Guidance
1. Notification prior to discharging fixed systems
❑ If vessel policy requires notification of the Master prior to fixed
system activation then:
— Must have clear written procedures
— Signed by Master and Chief Engineer
Annually
ACSA Guide
Section L
2. Fixed System emergency communications equipment
❑ Installed communication system between activation control
station and wheelhouse must be installed or
❑ Emergency handheld radios may be used to meet this
requirement.
— Radios are stowed upon the bridge and at the controls
to the fixed firefighting system.
Annually
ACSA Guide
Section L
o 3. Automatic Identification System (AIS)
❑ Must have an approved AIS installed and operational
Annually
ACSA Guide
Section L
o 4. Global Maritime Distress Signal System (GMDSS)
Fish Processing Vessel 300 GT and over:
❑ Search and Rescue Transponder (SART)
— < 500 GT 1 SART
— ≥ 500 GT 2 SARTs
❑ 3 VHF handheld transceivers
NOTE: A transceiver permanently installed in a life raft may be
counted toward this requirement
— Must operate on channel 16 and one other channel
(channel 6 recommended)
❑ 2 VHF radio installation
— Capable of operating on:
- Channel 6 (156.3 MHz),
- Channel 13 (156.65 MHz); and,
- Channel 16 (156.8 MHz)
❑ 1 MF radio installation (Single Side Band)
— Capable of operating on 2 frequencies between (1605-3500
kHz)
❑ 1 NAVTEX receiver
Annually
ACSA Guide
Section L
56
ACSA Guidance
Additional Inspection Notes and Policy Discussion
1. Notification Procedures. Each vessel must have clear procedures, signed by the master
and chief engineer explaining the conditions under which fixed extinguishing systems are to
be used and responsibilities of all involved parties. These procedures should be included in
monthly drills.
2. Fixed System emergency communications equipment
For vessels where it is the policy to notify the master of the vessel prior to discharging the
vessel’s fixed firefighting system into the engine room, vessel owners shall install an
independently powered emergency communication system between the wheelhouse and the
controls to the fixed firefighting system, to allow immediate emergency notification
communication to the wheelhouse.
Emergency handheld radios may be used to meet this requirement, so long as the radios are
stowed upon the bridge and at the controls to the fixed firefighting system.
3. None
4. None
57
ACSA Guidance
Annex 1 – Product Codes
The products listed below are identified by the National Marine Fisheries Service
Those product codes identified as “Extensive Processing” are not allowed to be produced by
vessels enrolled in or in compliance with the ACSA Program. Only fish processing vessels
that are fully classed and load-lined as required by 46 CFR 28.720 and 46 CFR Subchapter E,
or that meet the definition of being “grandfather” are allowed to produce regulations 50 CFR,
Part 679, Table 1a. These products are typical of the Bering Sea/Aleutian Island (BSAI) and
Gulf of Alaska (GOA) cod freezer longliner and non - pollock freezer trawler fleets.
Product codes designated Head & Gut (H & G) are not considered processing. A vessel that
produces these products does not need to enter the ACSA Program.
Product codes designated as “Beyond Minimal Processing” are considered processing.
Vessels in compliance with the ACSA Program are allowed to produce these products.
these products.
Any other product by ACSA enrolled vessels are not authorized without special consideration
and evaluation by Commandant (CG-CVC).
58
ACSA Guidance
59
ACSA Guidance
Annex 2 – Compliance Matrix
60
ACSA Guidance
Annex 3 – Grandfathered Fish Processing Vessels
Grandfathered Fish Processing Vessel
In order for a fish processing vessel to be considered grandfathered and therefore not required to
meet the provisions of 46 CFR Part 28 Subpart F, the vessel must meet the following:
Load line
For domestic voyages (46 U.S.C. 5102(b)(4) ) , a fish processing vessel of not more than 5,000
gross tons must have a valid Load Line Certificate or must be exempted from the requirement to
have a Load Line Certificate by meeting one of the following conditions:
A. The vessel must have been constructed as a fish processing vessel before August 16,
1974 (46 U.S.C. 5102(b)(4)(A)(i)) ; or
B. The vessel must have been converted for use as a fish processing vessel before
January 1, 1983 (46 U.S.C. 5102(b)(4)(A)(ii)) , or
C. The vessel must be 150 gross tons or less (46 U.S.C. 5102(b)(10) ), and had the keel
laid or constructed as a fish processing vessel before January 1, 1986 (46 U.S.C.
5101(3)).
Classed
The vessel must have a valid certificate of class or must be exempted from the survey and
classification requirements (46 U.S.C. 5102(b)). In order for a vessel to be exempted from the
survey and classification requirement:
● The vessel must have been built as or converted to a fish processing vessel on or
before July 27, 1990, and not undergone a major conversion
1
*.
Maintaining Grandfather Status
The OCMI, in consultation with the District, will determine whether a vessel is eligible for
grandfathered status on a case-by-case basis. In order for a fish processing vessel to maintain
grandfather status the vessel must not have converted the use of the vessel to any other type. If
at any time the vessel which was operating as a fish processing vessel changed the “type of
vessel 46 U.S.C. 2101(14a)(B) ” to that of a fishing vessel (not processing) or a fish tender
vessel (not processing), after any of the above thresholds, the vessel will be considered to have
undergone a major conversion and the eligibility for grandfather status would be invalid.
1
Under Title, 46 U.S.C. 2101(14a) a “major conversion” means a conversion of a vessel that:
(A) Substantially changes the dimensions or carrying capacity of the vessel;
(B) Changes the type of the vessel;
(C) Substantially prolongs the life of the vessel; or
(D) Otherwise so changes the vessel that it is essentially a new vessel.
61
ACSA Guidance
Annex 4 – Sample Renewal Request Letter
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Company letterhead
………………………………………………………………………………………………
To: Commander (dpi) U.S. Coast Guard District Date:
Sir:
In accordance with 46 CFR Part 28.60 and the Alternate Compliance and Safety Agreement
(ACSA) Guidance, I am requesting a renewal exemption from classification and load line for the
following vessels listed below.
Vessel Name
Official Number
Specific Exemption
Exam Location
Bering Cod
38669
Class & Load Line
Fishermen’s Terminal,
WA
Bering Flat
38670
Class only
Unalaska, AK
This vessel will produce fish products that are determined to be “beyond minimal processing.”
We therefore authorize United States Coast Guard marine inspectors to come aboard the vessel
for initial, mid-period, and periodic examinations to ensure continued compliance with ACSA
program requirements.
Sincerely,
Name
*Ensure you include the address where you want the Exemption Letter mailed
62
ACSA Guidance
Annex 5 – Sample COC & ACSA Exemption Letter
Commander
United States Coast Guard
Thirteenth Coast Guard District
915 Second Ave
Seattle, WA 98174-1067
Staff Symbol: (dpi)
Phone: 206-220-7216
FAX: 206-220-7225
16716
The Cod Fishing Company Inc
5615 1
st
Ave. West
Seattle, WA 98199
BERING COD (ON 545699) Certificate of Compliance & Exemption
Dear Sir:
You requested exemption for this vessel from the requirement of 46 CFR 28.720 to be classed
and from 46 CFR Subchapter E requirements for Load Lines. This request was in accordance
with the Alternate Compliance and Safety Agreement (ACSA) Program as described in
Commandant (CG-543) Policy Letter 12-01. This application constitutes acknowledgement that
the subject vessel operates as a fish processing vessel as defined in 46 CFR Part 28. On January
10, 2021, you completed all requirements to remain in the ACSA program.
In accordance with 46 CFR 28.60, I hereby grant the subject vessel exemption from the
requirements of 46 CFR 28.720 and 46 CFR Subchapter E. The vessel is hereby issued this
Certificate of Compliance (COC). This allows the vessel to continue to operate as a fish
processing vessel to produce only those products listed as “H & G” and “Beyond Minimal
Processing” in Annex 1 of the Guidance for the ACSA Program. This exemption does not allow
for the processing of products listed as “Extensive Processing” in that Annex. This exemption
shall expire January 10, 2025 unless terminated earlier.
Required Examinations: To remain valid, this vessel must comply with the agreement and
complete examinations listed below and recorded on enclosure 1:
ACSA Mid-period (within 60 days of)
January 10, 2024
Dockside exam (within 60 days of)
January 10, 2024
ACSA Exemption Renewal exam (request 60 days prior)
January 10, 2025
ACSA Dry-dock exam (commenced by)
January 31, 2025
Incline test or deadweight survey (completed by)
January 4, 2025
Vessel specification:
Year Completed
1975
Gross tons (GRT)
1215
Length
205.7 Feet
Horsepower
3600
63
ACSA Guidance
Waters
Route
Gear Type
Cold
Greater than 100nm
Trawler – Catcher Processor
Vessel Manning:
USCG Credentialed
Master
1
Mate
1
Engineer
1
Assistant Engineer
1
Drill Conductors
4
Trained Firefighters
4
1
st
Aid & CPR Certified
2
Total persons allowed
32
Required Equipment:
Survival craft:
SOLAS A,
Capacity for the number of persons onboard
Distress Signals:
3 - Hand Flares / 6 - Parachute Flares / 3 - Smoke
PFDs:
Immersion Suits
Adequate size and number for all persons onboard
Ring Buoys:
3 at least 1 with light and 1 with line attached
EPIRB:
1 - Category I
Communication Equipment:
1 - VHF / 1 - SSB
Stability: The vessel’s master is responsible for maintaining satisfactory stability at all times.
This requires thorough understanding of the vessel’s stability book, reliable high water
alarms to alert of water intrusion and close attention to vessel loading conditions. The
Master must ensure closure status of watertight & weathertight openings in compliance with
the stability book.
This original certificate and the enclosure shall be posted under glass or other suitable
transparent material in the wheelhouse so that all pages are visible.
If you have questions or require further assistance, please contact Mr. Troy Rentz, Commercial
Fishing Vessel Safety ACSA Coordinator, Thirteenth Coast Guard District, at (206) 220-7216 or
Troy[email protected].
Sincerely,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Prevention Chief, Thirteenth Coast Guard District
64
ACSA Guidance
65
ACSA Guidance
Annex 6 - Relative Comparison of Load Line and ACSA Requirements
66
ACSA Guidance
Annex 7 – Automation in Lieu of Assistant Engineer
67
ACSA Guidance
68
ACSA Guidance
Annex 8 – Sample ACSA Vessel Lay-up Request
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Company letterhead
………………………………………………………………………………………………
Date
USCG Thirteenth District (dpi)
Fishing Vessel Safety, ACSA Coordinator
915 Second Ave, Room 3506
Seattle, WA 98174-1067
Re: F/V BERING COD
Sir:
According to our records the F/V BERING COD Official Number ###### is due for an ACSA
Renewal exam on MM/DD/YYYY and a dry-dock exam on May MM/DD/YYYY.
Currently the vessel is tied up at location____________, and we do not plan on operating the
vessel in the coming year(s). We ask that the vessel be placed in lay-up status. We understand the
vessel must complete all ACSA examinations prior to being placed back into service. We will
reach out at least 60 days prior to operating to schedule all required examinations.
Sincerely,
Name
Position
Company
69
