Updated CG Work Instruction Approves Shoulder-Fired Line-Throwing Appliances

The United States Coast Guard’s Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance has released an update to Work Instruction CG CVC-WI-010(3), which provides guidance to officers in charge of marine inspection (OCMIs) on special consideration for inspected towing vessels.

The updated Work Instruction stipulates that shoulder gun-type line-throwing appliances approved under 46 CFR §160.031 may be used in lieu of impulse projected rocket-type line-throwing appliances approved under 46 CFR §160.040, which had previously been the only acceptable line-throwing appliances under Part 141 of Subchapter M.

The American Waterways Operators, which has advocated for this acceptance with the support of coastal members, noted the change of guidance in a recent newsletter to members.

The updated Work Instruction also includes new guidance on the use of electronic visual distress signaling devices (eVDSDs), permitting non-SOLAS vessels on Lakes, Bays and Sounds and Rivers routes, as well as short-duration Great Lakes or Coastwise routes, to carry one eVDSD in lieu of six day and night flares.

Vessel operators must make requests for special consideration to authorize departures from specific Subchapter M requirements to the cognizant OCMI.