[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 46, Volume 7]
[Revised as of October 1, 2003]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 46CFR183.350]

[Page 292]
 
                           TITLE 46--SHIPPING
 
   CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)
 
PART 183--ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION--Table of Contents
 
            Subpart C--Power Sources and Distribution Systems
 
Sec. 183.350  Batteries--general.

    (a) Where provisions are made for charging batteries, there must be 
natural or induced ventilation sufficient to dissipate the gases 
generated.
    (b) Each battery must be located as high above the bilge as 
practicable, secured to protect against shifting with the roll and pitch 
of the vessel, and free from exposure to water splash or spray.
    (c) Batteries must be accessible for maintenance and removal.
    (d) Connections must be made to battery terminals with permanent 
type connectors. Spring clips or other temporary type clamps are 
prohibited.
    (e) Batteries must be mounted in trays lined with, or constructed 
of, a material that is resistant to damage by the electrolyte.
    (f) Battery chargers must have an ammeter connected in the charging 
circuit.
    (g) If the batteries are not adjacent to a distribution panel or 
switchboard that distributes power to the lighting, motor, and appliance 
circuits, the battery lead must have a fuse in series as close as 
practicable to the battery.
    (h) Batteries used for engine starting are to be located as close as 
possible to the engine or engines served.

[CGD 85-080, 61 FR 997, Jan. 10, 1996; 61 FR 20557, May 7, 1996]