[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 46, Volume 7]
[Revised as of October 1, 2004]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 46CFR196.15-20]

[Page 402]
 
                           TITLE 46--SHIPPING
 
   CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)
 
PART 196_OPERATIONS--Table of Contents
 
              Subpart 196.15_Test, Drills, and Inspections
 
Sec. 196.15-20  Hatches and other openings.

    (a) It shall be the responsibility of the master to assure himself 
that all exposed hatches and other openings in the hull of his vessel 
are closed, made properly watertight by the use of tarpaulins, gaskets 
or similar devices, and in all respects properly secured for sea before 
leaving protected waters.
    (b) The openings to which this section applies are as follows:
    (1) Exposed hatches.
    (2) Gangway and other ports fitted below the freeboard deck.
    (3) Port lights that are not accessible during navigation, including 
the dead lights for such port lights.
    (c) The master at his discretion may permit hatches or other 
openings to remain uncovered or open, or to be uncovered or opened for 
reasonable purposes such as ship's maintenance while the vessel is being 
navigated: Provided, That in his opinion existing conditions warrant 
such action.
    (d) In the event the master employs the discretionary provisions of 
this section after leaving port he shall cause appropriate entries to be 
made in the official log or equivalent thereof setting forth the time of 
uncovering, opening, closing or covering of the hatches or other 
openings to which this section applies and the circumstances warranting 
the action taken.
    (e) The discretionary provisions of this section shall not relieve 
the master of his responsibility for the safety of his vessel, equipment 
or persons on board.