In light of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis the Outer Continental Shelf Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection is permitting the extension of third party surveys for firefighting and lifesaving equipment until 30 September on a case-by-case basis.
Eighth District MSIB: Extension of Third Party Surveys
In an effort to help minimize possible exposure of the novel coronavirus to offshore oil and gas facilities the Outer Continental Shelf Officer in Charge Marine Inspection has published Marine Safety Information Bulletin 20-03 that allows operators to differ the third party inspections associated with the Coast Guard regulated firefighting and lifesaving systems, as well as cranes, until 31 July, 2020.
10/25/2018: Harmonization of fire protection equipment standards for towing vessels
The Coast Guard is finalizing the interim final rule “Harmonization of Standards for Fire Protection, Detection, and Extinguishing Equipment” effective Nov. 26, 2018, to align fire protection and equipment regulations for inspected towing vessels with other commercial vessel regulations.
4/3/2018: Policy Letter 18-04, Guidance on implementation of new firefighting equipment standards
Policy Letter 18-04 provides guidance to Officer(s) in Charge, Marine Inspection, on recent changes to regulatory requirements for fire protection, detection, and extinguishing equipment used on inspected and uninspected vessels, Outer Continental Shelf facilities, deepwater ports and mobile offshore drilling units.