The Coast Guard has published Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 01-22, “Acceptance of Novel Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements.”
This document provides guidance to manufacturers and ship owners seeking acceptance of novel life-saving appliances (LSA) and arrangements under 46 CFR 199.40 on board a U.S. registered vessel subject to the International Convention for Safety of Life at Seas (SOLAS), or a foreign flag passenger vessel seeking a Certificate of Compliance for the purpose of carrying a citizen of the United States as a passenger.
The USCG recognizes the innovation in the lifesaving appliance industry to meet the demands of modern shipping while balancing the need for safe, effective and reliable life-saving equipment ready in an emergency. Primary lifesaving systems are a critical component in the overall safety of life onboard the vessel. Vessel design and operations have improved significantly and enable the vessel itself to serve as its own best safety platform. That said, these same improvements place even greater emphasis on the need for primary lifesaving equipment to work successfully under the most difficult conditions—because its only when all else fails that this equipment will be used.
As the USCG considers novel lifesaving arrangements, we will approach this from the perspective of ensuring that these systems make demonstrable improvements to the design, operation and reliability of primary lifesaving systems. NVIC 01-22 is intended to provide guidance to those seeking USCG approval or acceptance of those innovative products.
For more information, read or download NVIC 01-22. Questions related to USCG approval of marine equipment should be directed to TypeApproval@uscg.mil. Questions related to plan review of vessels should be directed to MSC@uscg.mil.
This blog is not a replacement or substitute for the formal posting of regulations and updates or existing processes for receiving formal feedback of the same. Links provided on this blog will direct the reader to official publications, such as the Federal Register, Homeport and the Code of Federal Regulations. These publications remain the official source for regulatory information published by the Coast Guard.