[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 46, Volume 2]
[Revised as of October 1, 2004]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 46CFR62.50-1]

[Page 308-309]
 
                           TITLE 46--SHIPPING
 
   CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)
 
PART 62_VITAL SYSTEM AUTOMATION--Table of Contents
 
          Subpart 62.50_Automated Self-propelled Vessel Manning
 
Sec. 62.50-1  General.


    (a) Where automated systems are provided to replace specific 
personnel in the control and observation of the engineering plant and 
spaces, or reduce overall crew requirements, the arrangements must make 
sure that under all sailing conditions, including maneuvering, the 
safety of the vessel is equal to that of the same vessel with the entire 
plant under fully attended direct manual supervision.

[[Page 309]]

    (b) Coast Guard acceptance of automated systems to replace specific 
personnel or to reduce overall crew requirements is predicated upon--
    (1) The capabilities of the automated systems;
    (2) The combination of the personnel, equipment, and systems 
necessary to ensure the safety of the vessel, personnel, and environment 
in all sailing conditions, including maneuvering;
    (3) The ability of the crew to perform all operational evolutions, 
including emergencies such as fire or control or monitoring system 
failure;
    (4) A planned maintenance program including routine maintenance, 
inspection, and testing to ensure the continued safe operation of the 
vessel; and
    (5) The automated system's demonstrated reliability during an 
initial trial period, and its continuing reliability.

    Note: The cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, (OCMI) 
also determines the need for more or less equipment depending on the 
vessel characteristics, route, or trade.

    (c) Equipment provided to replace specific personnel or to reduce 
overall crew requirements that proves unsafe or unreliable in the 
judgment of the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, must be 
immediately replaced or repaired or vessel manning will be modified to 
compensate for the equipment inadequacy.