33 C.F.R. PART 150—DEEPWATER PORTS: OPERATIONS


Title 33 - Navigation and Navigable Waters


Title 33: Navigation and Navigable Waters

Browse Previous

PART 150—DEEPWATER PORTS: OPERATIONS

Section Contents

Subpart A—General

§ 150.1   What does this part do?
§ 150.5   Definitions.
§ 150.10   What are the general requirements for operations manuals?
§ 150.15   What must the operations manual include?
§ 150.20   How many copies of the operations manual must be given to the Coast Guard?
§ 150.25   Amending the operations manual.
§ 150.30   Proposing an amendment to the operations manual.
§ 150.35   How may an adjacent coastal State request an amendment to the operations manual?
§ 150.40   Deviating from the operations manual.
§ 150.45   Emergency deviation from this subchapter or the operations manual.
§ 150.50   What are the requirements for a facility spill response plan?

Subpart B—Inspections

§ 150.100   What are the requirements for inspecting deepwater ports?
§ 150.105   What are the requirements for annual self-inspection?
§ 150.110   What are the notification requirements upon receipt of classification society certifications?

Subpart C—Personnel

§ 150.200   Who must ensure that port personnel are qualified?
§ 150.205   What are the language requirements for port personnel?
§ 150.210   What are the restrictions on serving in more than one position?
§ 150.225   What training and instruction are required?

Subpart D—Vessel Navigation

§ 150.300   What does this subpart do?
§ 150.305   How does this subpart apply to unmanned deepwater ports?
§ 150.310   When is radar surveillance required?
§ 150.320   What advisories are given to tankers?
§ 150.325   What is the first notice required before a tanker enters the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.330   What is the second notice required before a tanker enters the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.340   What are the rules of navigation for tankers in the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.345   How are support vessels cleared to move within the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.350   What are the rules of navigation for support vessels in the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.355   How are other vessels cleared to move within the safety zone?
§ 150.380   Under what circumstances may vessels operate within the safety zone or area to be avoided?
§ 150.385   What is required in an emergency?

Subpart E—Cargo Transfer Operations

§ 150.400   What does this subpart do?
§ 150.405   How must a Cargo Transfer System (CTS) be tested and inspected?
§ 150.420   What actions must be taken when cargo transfer equipment is defective?
§ 150.425   What are the requirements for transferring cargo?
§ 150.430   What are the requirements for a declaration of inspection?
§ 150.435   When are cargo transfers not allowed?
§ 150.440   How may the COTP order suspension of cargo transfers?
§ 150.445   When is oil in an SPM-OTS displaced with water?

Subpart F—Emergency and Specialty Equipment

§ 150.500   What does this subpart do?

Maintenance and Repair

§ 150.501   How must emergency equipment be maintained and repaired?

Lifesaving Equipment (General)

§ 150.502   What are the maintenance and repair requirements for lifesaving equipment?

Launching Appliances

§ 150.503   What are the time interval requirements for maintenance on survival craft falls?
§ 150.504   When must the operator service and examine lifeboat and rescue boat launching appliances?
§ 150.505   When must the operator service and examine lifeboat and rescue boat release gear?

Inflatable Lifesaving Appliances

§ 150.506   When must the operator service inflatable lifesaving appliances and marine evacuation systems?
§ 150.507   How must the operator service inflatable lifesaving appliances?
§ 150.508   What are the maintenance and repair requirements for inflatable rescue boats?

Operational Tests and Inspections (General)

§ 150.509   How must emergency equipment be tested and inspected?
§ 150.510   How must emergency equipment being tested be operated?
§ 150.511   What are the operational testing requirements for lifeboat and rescue boat release gear?

Frequency of Tests and Inspections

§ 150.512   What are the weekly tests and inspections?
§ 150.513   What are the monthly tests and inspections?
§ 150.514   What are the annual tests and inspections?

Weight-Testing

§ 150.515   What are the requirements for weight-testing of newly installed or relocated craft?
§ 150.516   What are the periodic requirements for weight-testing?
§ 150.517   How are weight tests supervised?

Personal Safety Gear

§ 150.518   What are the inspection requirements for work vests and immersion suits?

Emergency Lighting and Power Systems

§ 150.519   What are the requirements for emergency lighting and power systems?

Fire Extinguishing Equipment

§ 150.520   When must fire extinguishing equipment be tested and inspected?
§ 150.521   What records are required?

Miscellaneous Operations

§ 150.530   What may the fire-main system be used for?
§ 150.531   How many fire pumps must be kept ready for use at all times?
§ 150.532   What are the requirements for connection and stowage of fire hoses?
§ 150.540   What are the restrictions on fueling aircraft?
§ 150.550   What are the requirements for the muster list?
§ 150.555   How must cranes be maintained?

Subpart G—Workplace Safety and Health

§ 150.600   What does this subpart do?

Safety and Health (General)

§ 150.601   What are the requirements for workplace safety and health on a deepwater port?
§ 150.602   What occupational awareness training is required?
§ 150.603   What emergency response training is required?
§ 150.604   Who controls access to medical monitoring and exposure records?
§ 150.605   What are the procedures for reporting a possible workplace safety or health violation at a deepwater port?
§ 150.606   After learning of a possible violation, what does the OCMI do?

General Workplace Conditions

§ 150.607   What are the general safe working requirements?

Personal Protective Equipment

§ 150.608   Who is responsible for ensuring that personnel use or wear protective equipment and are trained in its use?

Eyes and Face

§ 150.609   When is eye and face protection required?
§ 150.610   Where must eyewash equipment be located?

Head

§ 150.611   What head protection is required?

Feet

§ 150.612   What footwear is required?

Noise and Hearing Protection

§ 150.613   What are the requirements for a noise monitoring and hearing protection survey?

Clothing

§ 150.614   When is protective clothing required?

Electrical

§ 150.615   What safe practices are required?

Lockout/Tagout

§ 150.616   What are the requirements for lockout?
§ 150.617   What are the requirements for tagout?

Respiratory Protection

§ 150.618   What are the requirements for respiratory protection?

Fall Arrest

§ 150.619   What are the fall arrest system requirements?

Machine Guards

§ 150.620   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from machinery?

Slings

§ 150.621   What are the requirements for slings?

Warning Signs

§ 150.622   What are the warning sign requirements?

Confined Space Safety

§ 150.623   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from hazards associated with confined spaces?

Blood-Borne Pathogens

§ 150.624   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from blood-borne pathogens?

Hazard Communication Program

§ 150.625   What must the hazard communication program contain?
§ 150.626   What is the hazard communication program used for?
§ 150.627   Must material safety data sheets be available to all personnel?
§ 150.628   How must the operator label, tag, and mark a container of hazardous material?

Subpart H—Aids to Navigation

§ 150.700   What does this subpart do?
§ 150.705   What are the requirements for maintaining and inspecting aids to navigation?
§ 150.710   What are the requirements for supplying power to aids to navigation?
§ 150.715   What are the requirements for lights used as aids to navigation?
§ 150.720   What are the requirements for sound signals?

Subpart I—Reports and Records

§ 150.800   What does this subpart do?

Reports

§ 150.805   What reports must be sent both to a classification society and to the Coast Guard?
§ 150.810   Reporting a problem with an aid to navigation.
§ 150.815   How must casualties be reported?
§ 150.820   When must a written report of casualty be submitted and what must it contain?
§ 150.825   Reporting a diving-related casualty.
§ 150.830   Reporting a pollution incident.
§ 150.835   Reporting sabotage or a subversive activity.

Records

§ 150.840   What records must be kept?
§ 150.845   Personnel records.
§ 150.850   How long must a declaration of inspection form be kept?

Subpart J—Safety Zones, No Anchoring Areas, and Areas To Be Avoided

§ 150.900   What does this subpart do?
§ 150.905   Why are safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided established?
§ 150.910   What installations, structures, or activities are prohibited in a safety zone and area to be avoided?
§ 150.915   How are safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided established and modified?
§ 150.920   How is notice given of new or proposed safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided?
§ 150.925   How long may a safety zone, no anchoring area, and area to be avoided last?
§ 150.930   What datum is used for the geographic coordinates in this subpart?
§ 150.940   Safety zones for specific deepwater ports.


Authority:  33 U.S.C. 1231, 1321(j)(1)(C), (j)(5), (j)(6), (m)(2); 33 U.S.C. 1509(a); E.O. 12777, sec. 2; E.O. 13286, sec. 34, 68 FR 10619; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1(70), (73), (75), (80).

Source:  USCG–1998–3884, 69 FR 748, Jan. 6, 2004, unless otherwise noted.

Effective Date Note:  By USCG–1998–3884, 69 FR 746, Jan. 6, 2004, subchapter NN, consisting of parts 148, 149, and 150, was revised, effective Jan. 6, 2004 until Oct. 1, 2006.

Subpart A—General
top
§ 150.1   What does this part do?
top

This part provides requirements for the operation of deepwater ports.

§ 150.5   Definitions.
top

See §148.5 of this chapter for the definition of certain terms used in this part.

§ 150.10   What are the general requirements for operations manuals?
top

(a) Each deepwater port must have an operations manual that addresses policies and procedures for normal and emergency operations conducted at the port. The operations manual must, at a minimum, include the requirements outlined in §150.15.

(b) The operations manual is reviewed and approved by the Commandant (G-M), who may consult with the local OCMI, as meeting the requirements of the Act and this subchapter. The original manual is approved as part of the application process in part 148 of this chapter.

(c) The OCMI may approve subsequent changes to the operations manual, provided Commandant (G-M) is notified and consulted regarding any significant modifications.

(d) The manual must be readily available on the deepwater port for use by personnel.

(e) The licensee must ensure that all personnel are trained and follow the procedures in the manual while at the deepwater port.

§ 150.15   What must the operations manual include?
top

The operations manual required by §150.10 must identify the deepwater port and include the information required in this section.

(a) General information. A description of the geographic location of the deepwater port.

(b) A physical description of the port.

(c) Engineering and construction information, including all defined codes and standards used for the port structure and systems. The operator must also include schematics of all applicable systems. Schematics must show the location of valves, gauges, system working pressure, relief settings, monitoring systems, and other pertinent information.

(d) Communications system. A description of a comprehensive communications plan, including:

(1) Dedicated frequencies;

(2) Communication alerts/notices between deepwater port and arriving and departing vessels; and

(3) Mandatory time intervals (communication schedules) for maintaining a live radio watch and monitoring frequencies for communication with vessels and aircraft.

(e) Facility plan. A plan of the layout of the mooring areas, aids to navigation, cargo transfer locations, and control stations.

(f) The hours of operation.

(g) The size, type, number, and simultaneous operations of tankers that the port can handle.

(h) Calculations, with supporting data or other documentation, to show that the charted water depth at each proposed mooring location is sufficient to provide at least a net under-keel clearance of 5 feet, at the mean low water condition.

(i) Tanker navigation procedures. The procedures for the navigation of tankers, including the information required in paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(9) of this section.

(1) The operating limits, maneuvering capability, draft, net under-keel clearance, tonnage and dimensions (i.e., length, width and breadth) of the tanker to be accommodated at each designated mooring.

(2) The speed limits proposed for tankers in the safety zone and navigation area to be avoided around the port.

(3) Any special navigation or communication equipment that may be required for operating in the safety zone and area to be avoided.

(4) The measures for routing vessels, including a description of the radar navigation system to be used in operation of the deepwater port:

(i) Type of radar;

(ii) Characteristics of the radar;

(iii) Antenna location;

(iv) Procedures for surveillance of vessels approaching, departing, and transiting the safety zone and navigation area to be avoided;

(v) Advisories to each tanker underway in the safety zone regarding the vessel's position, port conditions, and status of adjacent vessel traffic;

(vi) Notices that must be made, as outlined in §150.325, by the tanker master regarding the vessel's characteristics and status; and

(vii) Rules for navigating, mooring, and anchoring in a safety zone, area to be avoided, and anchorage area.

(5) Any mooring equipment needed to make up to the SPM.

(6) The procedures for clearing tankers, support vessels, and other vessels and aircraft during emergency and routine conditions.

(7) Weather limits for tankers, including a detailed description of the manner of forecasting the wind, wave, and current conditions for:

(i) Shutdown of cargo transfer operations;

(ii) Departure of the tanker from the mooring;

(iii) Prohibition on mooring at the DWP or SPM; and

(iv) Shutdown of all port operations and evacuation of the port.

(8) Any special illumination requirements for vessel arrival, discharge, and departure operations.

(9) Any special watch standing requirements for vessel transiting, mooring, or while at anchor.

(j) Personnel. The duties, title, qualifications, and training of all port personnel responsible for managing and carrying out the following port activities and functions:

(1) Vessel traffic management;

(2) Cargo transfer operations;

(3) Safety and fire-protection;

(4) Maintenance and repair operations;

(5) Emergency procedures; and

(6) Port security.

(k) The personnel assigned to supervisory positions must be designated, in writing, by the licensee and have the appropriate experience and training to satisfactorily perform their duties. Commandant (G-M) will review and approve the qualifications for all proposed supervisory positions.

(l) Cargo transfer procedures. The procedures for transferring cargo must comply with the applicable requirements of parts 154 and 156 for oil and subpart B to part 127 for natural gas, respectively, of this chapter including the requirements specified in paragraphs (l)(1) through (l)(10) of this section.

(1) The requirements for oil transfers in accordance with subpart A to part 156 of this chapter regarding:

(i) Pre-transfer conference;

(ii) Inspection of transfer site and equipment (i.e., hoses, connectors, closure devices, monitoring devices, and containment);

(iii) Connecting and disconnecting of transfer equipment, including to a floating hose string for a single-point mooring;

(iv) Preparation of the Declaration of Inspection (DOI); and

(v) Supervision by a Person in Charge (PIC).

(2) The requirements for natural gas transfers in accordance with subpart B to part 127 of this chapter regarding:

(i) Pre-transfer conference;

(ii) Inspection of transfer site and equipment (i.e., hoses, connectors, closure devices, leak monitoring devices, and containment);

(iii) Connecting and disconnecting of transfer equipment, including to a floating hose string for a SPM;

(iv) Purging of line to test for leaks and in preparation for cool down or heat up phases as appropriate;

(v) Preparation of the Declaration of Inspection (DOI); and

(vi) Supervision by a port PIC.

(3) The shipping name of, and Material Safety Data Sheet on, the product(s) transferred.

(4) The duties, title, qualifications, and training of personnel of the port designated as the PIC and responsible for managing cargo transfers (including ballasting operations if applicable to the port), in accordance with subpart D of part 154 for oil and subpart B (Operations) of part 127 for natural gas, respectively of this chapter.

(5) Minimum requirements for watch personnel onboard the vessel during transfer operations (i.e., personnel necessary for checking mooring gear, monitoring communications and having propulsion/steering on standby).

(6) The start-up and completion of pumping.

(7) Emergency shutdown.

(8) The maximum relief valve settings, the maximum available working pressure and hydraulic shock to the system without relief valves, or both.

(9) Equipment necessary to discharge cargo to the port complex without harm to the environment or to persons involved in the cargo transfer, including piping, adapters, bolted flanges and quick disconnect coupling.

(10) Describing the method to be used to water and de-water the SPM hoses when required.

(m) Unusual arrangements that may be applicable, including:

(1) A list and description of any extraordinary equipment or assistance available to vessels with inadequate pumping capacity, small cargoes, small diameter piping, or inadequate crane capacity; and

(2) A description of special storage or delivery arrangements for unusual cargoes (i.e., cool down requirements for transfer system components prior to transfer of LNG).

(n) Maintenance procedures. A maintenance program to document service and repair of:

(1) Cargo transfer equipment;

(2) Firefighting and Fire protection equipment;

(3) Safety equipment; and

(4) Cranes.

(o) Occupational health and safety training procedures. Policy and procedures to address occupational health and safety requirements outlined in §§150.600 to 150.632 of this subpart, including:

(1) Employee training in safety and hazard awareness and proper use of personnel protective equipment;

(2) Physical safety measures in the workplace (i.e., housekeeping and illumination of walking and working areas);

(3) Fall arrest;

(4) Personnel transfer nets;

(5) Hazard communication (Right to Know);

(6) Permissible exposure limits (PEL);

(7) Machine guarding;

(8) Electrical safety;

(9) Lockout/Tagout;

(10) Crane safety;

(11) Sling usage;

(12) Hearing conservation;

(13) Hot work;

(14) Warning signs;

(15) Confined space safety; and

(16) Initial and periodic training and certification will be documented for each port employee and for visitors where appropriate (e.g., safety orientation training).

(p) Emergency procedures. Emergency internal and external notification procedures:

(1) Names and numbers of key port personnel; and

(2) Names and numbers of law enforcement and response agencies.

(q) Quantity, type, location, and use of safety and fire-protection equipment, including fire plan.

(r) Aerial operations (helicopter landing pad procedures).

(s) Port response procedures for:

(1) Fire;

(2) Reportable product spill;

(3) Personnel injury (including confined space rescue); and

(4) Terrorist activity (see Port Security Plan).

(t) Designation of and assignment of port personnel to response teams for specific contingencies.

(u) Individual and team training for incident response (in accordance with 46 CFR 109.213) as specified in paragraphs (u)(1) through (u)(3) of this section.

(1) Care and use of equipment.

(2) Emergency drills and response:

(i) Types;

(ii) Frequency (at least annually); and

(iii) Documentation (records, reports and dissemination of “lessons learned”).

(3) Documentation of minimum training requirements for response team members:

(i) Marine firefighting training;

(ii) First Aid/CPR;

(iii) Water survival;

(iv) Spill response and clean-up;

(v) Identification of at least one employee trained and certified at the level of an Emergency Medical Technician-Basic; and

(vi) Identification of at least two employees trained and certified as offshore competent persons in prevention of inadvertent entry into hazardous confined spaces.

(v) Deepwater port security procedures. A deepwater port security plan that addresses security issues, including, but not limited to:

(1) Controlling access of personnel and the introduction of goods and material into the port;

(2) Monitoring and alerting vessels that approach or enter the port's security zone;

(3) Identifying risks and procedures for increasing the probability of detecting and deterring terrorist or subversive activity (such as using security lighting and designating restricted areas within the port and remotely alarming them, as appropriate);

(4) Notification requirements (both internally and externally) and response requirements in the event of a perceived threat or an attack on the port;

(5) Designating the Port Security Officer, providing positive and verifiable identification of personnel with access to the port;

(6) The training (including drills) required for all personnel regarding security issues; and

(7) The scalability of actions and procedures for the various levels of threat. Deepwater port operators should ensure that security plans address or are comparable to the key security plan elements provided in 33 CFR part 106.

(w) Procedures for any special operations, including:

(1) Evacuation and re-manning procedures;

(2) Refueling operations;

(3) Diving operations;

(4) Support vessel operations; and

(5) Providing logistical services.

(x) Recordkeeping of maintenance procedures, tests, and emergency drills outlined elsewhere in the operations manual.

(y) Environmental monitoring procedures. A program for monitoring the environmental effects of the port and its operations in order to maintain compliance with the environmental conditions in the license and applicable environmental laws.

(1) Routine periodic re-examination of the physical, chemical, and biological factors contained in the port's environmental impact analysis and baseline study submitted with the license application. The examination process must include water and air monitoring in accordance with appropriate Federal and State statutes.

(2) A more detailed study may be required in the wake of an event such as an inadvertent release.

§ 150.20   How many copies of the operations manual must be given to the Coast Guard?
top

The draft operations manual will be included as part of the application submission. After a license has been issued and approval of the final operations manual is granted, the licensee must give the Commandant (G-M) at least five copies and five copies of each subsequent amendment to the manual.

§ 150.25   Amending the operations manual.
top

(a) Whenever the cognizant COTP finds that the operations manual does not meet the requirements of this part, the COTP notifies the licensee, in writing, of the inadequacies in the manual.

(b) Within 45 days after the notice under paragraph (a) of this section is sent, the licensee must submit written proposed amendments to eliminate the inadequacies.

(c) The cognizant COTP reviews the amendments and makes a determination as to the adequacy of the amendments and notifies the licensee of the determination.

(d) If the COTP decides that an amendment is necessary, the amendment goes into effect 60 days after the COTP notifies the licensee of the amendment.

(e) The licensee may petition the Commandant (G-M), via the appropriate district office, to review the decision of the COTP. In this case, the effective date of the amendment is delayed pending the Commandant's decision. Petitions must be made (in writing) and presented to the COTP for forwarding to the Commandant (G-M).

(f) If the COTP finds that a particular situation requires immediate action to prevent a spill or discharge, or to protect the safety of life and property, the COTP may issue an amendment effective on the date that the licensee receives it. The COTP must include a brief statement of the reasons for the immediate amendment. The licensee may petition the District Commander for review, but the petition does not delay the effective date of the amendment.

§ 150.30   Proposing an amendment to the operations manual.
top

(a) The licensee may propose an amendment to the operations manual:

(1) By submitting (in writing) the amendment and reasons for the amendments to the COTP not less than 30 days before the requested effective date of the amendment; or

(2) If the amendment is needed immediately, by submitting the amendment, and reasons why the amendment is needed immediately, to the COTP in writing.

(b) The COTP responds to a proposed amendment by notifying the licensee, in writing, before the requested date of the amendment whether the request is approved. If the request is disapproved, the COTP includes the reasons for disapproval in the notice. If the request is for an immediate amendment, the COTP responds as soon as possible.

§ 150.35   How may an adjacent coastal State request an amendment to the operations manual?
top

(a) An adjacent coastal State connected by pipeline to the deepwater port may petition the cognizant COTP to amend the operations manual. The petition must include sufficient information to allow the COTP to reach a decision concerning the proposed amendment.

(b) After the COTP receives a petition, the COTP requests comments from the licensee.

(c) After reviewing the petition and comments, and considering the costs and benefits involved, the COTP may approve the petition if the proposed amendment will provide equivalent or improved protection and safety. The adjacent coastal State may petition the Commandant (G-M) to review the decision of the COTP. Petitions must be made in writing and presented to the COTP for forwarding to the Commandant (G-M) via the District Commander.

§ 150.40   Deviating from the operations manual.
top

If, because of a particular situation, the licensee needs to deviate from the operations manual, the licensee must submit a written request to the COTP explaining why the deviation is necessary and what alternative is proposed. If the COTP determines that the deviation would ensure equivalent or greater protection and safety, the COTP authorizes the deviation and notifies the licensee in writing.

§ 150.45   Emergency deviation from this subchapter or the operations manual.
top

In an emergency, any person may deviate from any requirement in this subchapter, or any procedure in the operations manual, to ensure the safety of life, property, or the environment. Each deviation must be reported to the COTP at the earliest possible time.

§ 150.50   What are the requirements for a facility spill response plan?
top

(a) Each deepwater port, which meets the applicability requirements of part 154, subpart F, of this chapter must have a Facility Response Plan and be approved by the COTP.

(b) Each natural gas deepwater port must have a natural gas facility emergency plan that meets part 127, subpart B of this chapter.

(c) The response plan must be submitted to the COTP, in writing, not less than 60 days before the deepwater port begins operation.

Subpart B—Inspections
top
§ 150.100   What are the requirements for inspecting deepwater ports?
top

Under the direction of the OCMI, marine inspectors may inspect deepwater ports to determine whether the requirements of this subchapter are met. A marine inspector may conduct an inspection, with or without advance notice, at any time the COTP deems necessary, and may coincide with receipt of the annual self-inspection report from the operator to ensure stated conditions are accurate.

§ 150.105   What are the requirements for annual self-inspection?
top

(a) The owner or operator of each manned deepwater port must ensure that the port is inspected, at intervals of no more than 12 months, to determine whether the facility is in compliance with the requirements of this subchapter. The inspection may be conducted within 2 months after the date the inspection is due. However, the inspection is credited as of 12 months after the previous due date.

(b) The owner or operator must record and submit the results of the annual self-inspection to the COTP within 30 days after completion of the inspection. The report must include a description of any failure and scope of repairs made to components or equipment, in accordance with the requirements in Subpart I to this part, other than the primary lifesaving or firefighting or transfer equipment.

§ 150.110   What are the notification requirements upon receipt of classification society certifications?
top

The licensee must notify the COTP, in writing, upon receipt of a classification society certification, interim class certificate, or SPM classification certificate.

Subpart C—Personnel
top
§ 150.200   Who must ensure that port personnel are qualified?
top

The licensee must ensure that the individual filling a position meets the qualifications for that position as outlined in the operations manual.

§ 150.205   What are the language requirements for port personnel?
top

Only persons who read, write, and speak English may occupy the essential management positions outlined in the operations manual.

§ 150.210   What are the restrictions on serving in more than one position?
top

No person may serve in more than one of the essential management positions outlined in the operations manual at any one time.

§ 150.225   What training and instruction are required?
top

Personnel must receive training and instruction commensurate with the position they hold. Procedures for documenting employee training must be outlined in the operations manual.

Subpart D—Vessel Navigation
top
§ 150.300   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart supplements the international navigation rules in subchapter D of this chapter, and prescribes requirements that:

(a) Apply to the navigation of all vessels at or near a deepwater port; and

(b) Apply to all vessels while in a safety zone, area to be avoided, or no anchoring area.

§ 150.305   How does this subpart apply to unmanned deepwater ports?
top

The master of any tanker calling at an unmanned deepwater port is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel to and from the port and for the required notifications in §150.325. Once the tanker is connected to the unmanned deepwater port, the master must maintain radar surveillance in compliance with the requirements of §150.310.

§ 150.310   When is radar surveillance required?
top

A manned deepwater port's person in charge of vessel operations must maintain radar surveillance of the safety zone or area to be avoided when:

(a) A tanker is proceeding to the safety zone after submitting the report required in §150.325;

(b) A tanker or support vessel is underway in the safety zone or area to be avoided;

(c) A vessel other than a tanker or support vessel is about to enter or is underway in the safety zone or area to be avoided; or

(d) As described in the port security plan.

§ 150.320   What advisories are given to tankers?
top

A manned deepwater port's person in charge of vessel operations must advise the master of each tanker underway in the safety zone or area to be avoided of the following:

(a) At intervals not exceeding 10 minutes, the vessel's position by range and bearing from the pumping platform complex; and

(b) The position and the estimated course and speed, if moving, of all other vessels that may interfere with the movement of the tanker within the safety zone or area to be avoided.

§ 150.325   What is the first notice required before a tanker enters the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

(a) The owner, master, agent, or person in charge of a tanker bound for a manned deepwater port must comply with the notice of arrival (NOA) requirements in subpart C of part 160 of this chapter. The NOA will be submitted to the National Vessel Movement Center (NVMC) that was established in October 2001 to track arrival information from vessels entering U.S. waters.

(b) The owner, master, agent, or person in charge of a tanker bound for a manned deepwater port must report the pertinent information required in §150.15(i)(4)(vi) for the vessel including:

(1) The name, gross tonnage, and draft of the tanker;

(2) The type and amount of cargo in the tanker;

(3) The location of the tanker at the time of the report;

(4) Any conditions on the tanker that may impair its navigation, such as fire or malfunctioning propulsion, steering, navigational, or radiotelephone equipment. The testing requirements in §164.25 of this chapter are applicable to vessels arriving at a deepwater port;

(5) Any leaks, structural damage, or machinery malfunctions that may impair cargo transfer operations or cause a product discharge; and

(6) The operational condition of the equipment listed under §164.35 of this chapter on the tanker.

(c) If the estimated time of arrival changes by more than 6 hours from the last reported time, the NVMC and the port's person in charge of vessel operations must be notified of the correction as soon as the change is known.

(d) If the information reported in paragraphs (b)(4) or (b)(5) of this section changes at any time before the tanker enters the safety zone or area to be avoided at the deepwater port, or while the tanker is in the safety zone or area to be avoided, the master of the tanker must report the changes to the NVMC and port's person in charge of vessel operations as soon as possible.

§ 150.330   What is the second notice required before a tanker enters the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

When a tanker bound for a manned deepwater port is 20 miles from entering the port's safety zone or area to be avoided, the master of the tanker must notify the port's person in charge of vessel operations of the tanker's name and location.

§ 150.340   What are the rules of navigation for tankers in the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

(a) A tanker must enter or depart the port's safety zone or area to be avoided in accordance with the navigation procedures in the port's approved operations manual as described in §150.15(i).

(b) A tanker must not anchor in the safety zone or area to be avoided, except in a designated anchorage area.

(c) A tanker may not enter a safety zone or area to be avoided in which another tanker is present, unless it has been cleared by the person in charge of the port and no other tankers are underway.

(d) A tanker must not operate, anchor, or moor in any area of the safety zone or area to be avoided in which the net under-keel clearance would be less than 5 feet.

§ 150.345   How are support vessels cleared to move within the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

All movements of support vessels within a manned deepwater port's safety zone or area to be avoided must be cleared in advance by the port's person in charge of vessel operations.

§ 150.350   What are the rules of navigation for support vessels in the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

A support vessel must not anchor in the safety zone or area to be avoided, except:

(a) In an anchorage area; or

(b) For vessel maintenance, which, in the case of a manned deepwater port, must be cleared by the port's person in charge of vessel operations.

§ 150.355   How are other vessels cleared to move within the safety zone?
top

(a) Clearance by a manned deepwater port's person in charge of vessel operations is required before a vessel, other than a tanker or support vessel, enters the safety zone.

(b) The port's person in charge of vessel operations may clear a vessel under paragraph (a) of this section only if its entry into the safety zone would not:

(1) Interfere with the purpose of the deepwater port;

(2) Endanger the safety of life or property or the environment; or

(3) Be prohibited by regulation.

(c) At an unmanned deepwater port, such as a submerged turret landing (STL) system, paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section would apply once a tanker connects to the STL buoy.

§ 150.380   Under what circumstances may vessels operate within the safety zone or area to be avoided?
top

(a) Table 150.380(a) of this section lists the areas within a safety zone and area to be avoided where a vessel may operate and the clearance needed for that location.

View or download PDF

(b) If the activity is not listed in table 150.380(a) of this section, or is not otherwise provided for in this subpart, the COTP's permission is required first.

§ 150.385   What is required in an emergency?
top

In an emergency, for the protection of life or property, a vessel may deviate from a vessel movement requirement in this subpart without clearance from a manned deepwater port's person in charge of vessel operations if the master advises the port PIC of the reasons for the deviation at the earliest possible moment.

Subpart E—Cargo Transfer Operations
top
§ 150.400   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart prescribes rules that apply to the transfer of oil or natural gas at a deepwater port.

§ 150.405   How must a Cargo Transfer System (CTS) be tested and inspected?
top

(a) No person may transfer oil or natural gas through a CTS at a deepwater port unless it has been inspected and tested according to this section.

(b) The SPM-CTS must be maintained as required by the design standards used to comply with §149.650 of this chapter.

(c) If the manufacturer's maximum pressure rating for any cargo transfer hose in a SPM-CTS has been exceeded (unless it was exceeded for testing required by this section), the hose must be:

(1) Removed;

(2) Hydrostatically tested to 1.5 times its maximum working pressure for oil or 1.1 times its maximum working pressure for natural gas; and

(3) Visually examined externally and internally for evidence of:

(i) Leakage;

(ii) Loose covers;

(iii) Kinks;

(iv) Bulges;

(v) Soft spots; and

(vi) Gouges, cuts, or slashes that penetrate the hose reinforcement.

(d) Each submarine hose used in cargo transfer operations in a SPM-CTS must have been removed from its coupling, surfaced, and examined as described in paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(3) of this section within the preceding 2 years for oil or 15 months for natural gas; and

(e) Before resuming cargo transfer operations, each submarine hose in a SPM-CTS must be visually examined in place as described in paragraph (c)(3) of this section after cargo transfer operations are shut down due to sea conditions at the deepwater port.

§ 150.420   What actions must be taken when cargo transfer equipment is defective?
top

When any piece of equipment involved in cargo transfer operations (oil or natural gas) is defective:

(a) The piece of equipment must be replaced or repaired before making any further cargo transfers; and

(b) The repaired or replaced piece must meet or exceed its original specifications. Repairs must be conducted in accordance with the port-specific maintenance program outlined in the operations manual, and that program must provide for the repair of natural gas transfer hoses in accordance with §127.405 of this chapter.

§ 150.425   What are the requirements for transferring cargo?
top

Cargo transfer procedures must be outlined in the port operations manual and must provide:

(a) Oil transfer procedures that accord with §156.120 of this chapter; and

(b) Natural gas transfer procedures that accord with §§127.315, 127.317 and 127.319 of this chapter.

§ 150.430   What are the requirements for a declaration of inspection?
top

(a) No person may transfer cargo from a tanker to a manned deepwater port unless a declaration of inspection complying with §156.150(c) (for oil) or §127.317 (for natural gas) of this chapter has been filled out and signed by the vessel's officer in charge of cargo transfer and the person in charge of cargo transfer for the deepwater port.

(b) Before signing a declaration of inspection, the vessel's officer in charge of cargo transfer must inspect the tanker; the person in charge of cargo transfer for the deepwater port must inspect the deepwater port. They must indicate, by initialing each item on the declaration of inspection form, that the tanker and deepwater port comply with §156.150 (for oil) or §127.317 (for natural gas) of this chapter.

§ 150.435   When are cargo transfers not allowed?
top

No person may transfer cargo at a deepwater port:

(a) When the person in charge of cargo transfer is not on duty at the port;

(b) During an electrical storm in the port's vicinity;

(c) During a fire at the port, at the onshore receiving terminal, or aboard a vessel berthed at the port, unless the person in charge of cargo transfer determines that a cargo transfer should be resumed as a safety measure;

(d) When a leak develops of a sufficient quantity for product to accumulate in the cargo containment underneath the manifold or piping;

(e) When there are not enough personnel and equipment at the port dedicated to contain and remove the discharges or perform the emergency response functions as required in the port's response plan under part 154 (for oil), or emergency plan under part 127 (for natural gas) of this chapter;

(f) Whenever the emergency shutdown system should have activated but failed to do;

(g) By lighterage, except in bunkering operations, unless otherwise authorized by the COTP;

(h) When the weather at the port does not meet the minimum operating conditions for cargo transfers as defined in the port's operations manual; or

(i) When prescribed by the Port Security Plan under heightened security conditions at the port or its adjacent areas, or on vessels calling on or serving the port.

§ 150.440   How may the COTP order suspension of cargo transfers?
top

(a) In case of emergency, the COTP may order the suspension of cargo transfers at a port to prevent the discharge, or threat of discharge, of oil or natural gas or to protect the safety of life and property.

(b) An order of suspension may be made effective immediately.

(c) The order of suspension must state the reasons for the suspension.

(d) The licensee may petition the District Commander, in writing, or by any means if the suspension is effective immediately, to reconsider the order of suspension. The decision of the District Commander is considered final agency action.

§ 150.445   When is oil in an SPM-OTS displaced with water?
top

(a) The Port Superintendent must ensure that the oil in an SPM-OTS is displaced with water and that the valve at the pipeline end manifold is closed whenever:

(1) A storm warning is received forecasting weather conditions that will exceed the design operating criteria listed in the operations manual for the SPM-OTS;

(2) A vessel is about to depart the SPM because of storm conditions; or

(3) The SPM is not scheduled for use in an oil transfer operation within the next 7 days.

(b) The Port Engineer will not be required to perform this requirement, provided it can be demonstrated to the OCMI, that a satisfactory alternative means of safely securing all cargo transfer hoses can be implemented in the event of severe weather conditions.

Subpart F—Emergency and Specialty Equipment
top
§ 150.500   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart concerns requirements for maintenance, repair, and operational testing of emergency and specialty equipment at a deepwater port.

Maintenance and Repair
top
§ 150.501   How must emergency equipment be maintained and repaired?
top

All lifesaving, firefighting, and other emergency equipment at a deepwater port, including additional equipment not required to be onboard the deepwater port, must be maintained in good working order and repaired according to the port's planned maintenance program and the requirements outlined in this subpart.

Lifesaving Equipment (General)
top
§ 150.502   What are the maintenance and repair requirements for lifesaving equipment?
top

(a) Each deepwater port must have onboard, or in the operator's principal office in the case of an unmanned port, the manufacturer's instructions for performing onboard maintenance and repair of the port's lifesaving equipment. The instructions must include the following for each item of equipment, as applicable:

(1) Instructions for maintenance and repair;

(2) A checklist for use when carrying out the monthly inspections required under §150.513;

(3) A schedule of periodic maintenance;

(4) A diagram of lubrication points with the recommended lubricants;

(5) A list of replaceable parts;

(6) A list of sources of spare parts; and

(7) A log for records of inspections and maintenance.

(b) In lieu of the manufacturer's instructions required under paragraph (a) of this section, the deepwater port may have its own onboard planned maintenance program for maintenance and repair that is equivalent to the procedures recommended by the equipment manufacturer.

(c) The deepwater port must have designated a person in charge of ensuring that maintenance and repair is carried out in accordance with the instructions required in paragraph (a) of this section.

(d) If deficiencies in the maintenance or condition of lifesaving equipment are identified, the OCMI may review the instructions under paragraph (a) of this section and require appropriate changes to the instructions or operations to provide for adequate maintenance and readiness of the equipment.

(e) When lifeboats, rescue boats, and liferafts are not fully operational because of ongoing maintenance or repairs, there must be a sufficient number of fully operational lifeboats and liferafts available for use to accommodate all persons on the deepwater port.

(f) Except in an emergency, repairs or alterations affecting the performance of lifesaving equipment must not be made without notifying the OCMI in advance. The person in charge must report emergency repairs or alterations to lifesaving equipment to the OCMI, as soon as practicable.

(g) The person in charge must ensure that spare parts and repair equipment are provided for each lifesaving appliance and component subject to excessive wear or consumption.

Launching Appliances
top
§ 150.503   What are the time interval requirements for maintenance on survival craft falls?
top

(a) Each fall used in a launching device for survival craft or rescue boats must be turned end-for-end at intervals of not more than 30 months.

(b) Each fall must be replaced by a new fall when deteriorated or at intervals of not more than 5 years, whichever is earlier.

(c) A fall that cannot be turned end-for-end under paragraph (a) of this section must be carefully inspected between 24 and 30 months after its installation. If the inspection shows that the fall is faultless, the fall may be continued in service up to 4 years after its installation. It must be replaced by a new fall 4 years after installation.

§ 150.504   When must the operator service and examine lifeboat and rescue boat launching appliances?
top

(a) The operator must service launching appliances for lifeboats and rescue boats at intervals recommended in the manufacturer's instructions under §150.502(a), or deepwater port's planned maintenance program under §150.502(b).

(b) The operator must thoroughly examine launching appliances for lifeboats and rescue boats at intervals not to exceed 5 years. Upon completion of the examination, the operator must subject the winch brakes of the launching appliance to a dynamic test.

§ 150.505   When must the operator service and examine lifeboat and rescue boat release gear?
top

(a) The operator must service lifeboat and rescue boat release gear at intervals recommended in the manufacturer's instructions under §150.502(a), or deepwater port's planned maintenance program under §150.502(b).

(b) The operator must subject lifeboat and rescue boat release gear to a thorough examination at each inspection for certification by personnel trained in examining the gear.

Inflatable Lifesaving Appliances
top
§ 150.506   When must the operator service inflatable lifesaving appliances and marine evacuation systems?
top

(a) The operator must service each inflatable lifejacket, hybrid inflatable lifejacket, and marine evacuation system at intervals of 1-year after its initial packing. The operator may delay the servicing up to 5 months to meet the next scheduled inspection of the deepwater port.

(b) The operator must service each inflatable liferaft no later than the month and year on its servicing sticker under 46 CFR 160.151–57(m)(3)(ii), except that the operator may delay servicing up to 5 months to meet the next scheduled inspection of the deepwater port. The operator must also service each inflatable liferaft:

(1) Whenever the container of the raft is damaged; or

(2) Whenever the container straps or seals are broken.

§ 150.507   How must the operator service inflatable lifesaving appliances?
top

(a) The operator must service each inflatable life raft according to 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.151.

(b) The operator must service each inflatable lifejacket according to 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.176.

(c) The operator must service each hybrid inflatable lifejacket according to the owner's manual and the procedures in 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.077.

§ 150.508   What are the maintenance and repair requirements for inflatable rescue boats?
top

The operator must perform the maintenance and repair of inflatable rescue boats according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Operational Tests and Inspections (General)
top
§ 150.509   How must emergency equipment be tested and inspected?
top

All lifesaving, firefighting, and other emergency equipment at a deepwater port must be tested and inspected per this subpart.

§ 150.510   How must emergency equipment being tested be operated?
top

The equipment must be operated under the operating instructions of the equipment's manufacturer when tests or inspections include operational testing of emergency equipment.

§ 150.511   What are the operational testing requirements for lifeboat and rescue boat release gear?
top

(a) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be operationally tested under a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat or rescue boat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment.

(b) The test must be conducted whenever the lifeboat, rescue boat, or their release gear is overhauled or at least once every 5 years.

(c) The OCMI may consider alternate operational test procedures to those under paragraph (a) of this section.

Frequency of Tests and Inspections
top
§ 150.512   What are the weekly tests and inspections?
top

The required weekly tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment are as follows:

(a) The operator must visually inspect each survival craft, rescue boat, and launching device to ensure its readiness for use;

(b) The operator must test the general alarm system; and

(c) The operator must test for readiness of the engine, starting device, and communications equipment of each lifeboat and rescue boat according to the manufacturer's instructions.

§ 150.513   What are the monthly tests and inspections?
top

(a) The operator must inspect monthly each item of lifesaving equipment under §150.502(b) to this subpart, to ensure that the equipment is complete and in good order. The operator must keep on the deepwater port (or in the operator's principal office, in the case of an unmanned deepwater port) a report of the inspection that includes a statement as to the condition of the equipment, and make the report available for review by the Coast Guard.

(b) The operator must test monthly each Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and each Search and Rescue Transponder (SART), other than an EPIRB or SART in an inflatable liferaft. The operator must test the EPIRB using the integrated test circuit and output indicator to determine whether the EPIRB is operational.

§ 150.514   What are the annual tests and inspections?
top

At least annually the operator must:

(a) Strip, clean, thoroughly inspect, and, if needed, repair each lifeboat, rescue boat, and liferaft. At that time, the operator must empty, clean, and refill with fresh fuel each fuel tank;

(b) Thoroughly inspect and, if needed, repair each davit, winch, fall, and other launching device;

(c) Check each item of lifesaving equipment and replace any item that is marked with an expiration date that has passed;

(d) Check each battery used in an item of lifesaving equipment and replace any battery that is marked with an expiration date that has passed; and

(e) Replace any battery that is not marked with an expiration date if that battery is used in an item of lifesaving equipment, except for a storage battery used in a lifeboat or rescue boat.

(f) The requirements in this section do not relieve the person in charge of the requirement to keep the equipment ready for immediate use.

Weight-Testing
top
§ 150.515   What are the requirements for weight-testing of newly installed or relocated craft?
top

(a) The operator must perform installation weight-testing according to 46 CFR 199.45(a)(1) on each new lifeboat, rescue boat, and davit-launched liferaft system.

(b) The operator must conduct installation weight-tests, according to paragraph (a) of this section, when survival crafts are relocated to another deepwater port.

§ 150.516   What are the periodic requirements for weight-testing?
top

The operator must weight-test, according to 46 CFR 199.45(a)(1), each lifeboat, davit-launched liferaft, and rescue boat every time a fall is replaced or turned end-for-end.

§ 150.517   How are weight tests supervised?
top

(a) The installation and periodic tests required by 150.515 and 150.516 of this subpart must be supervised by a person familiar with lifeboats, davit-launched liferafts, rescue boats, and with the test procedures under those sections.

(b) The person supervising the tests must attest, in writing, that the tests have been performed according to Coast Guard regulations. The operator must keep a copy of the supervisor's attesting statement onboard the deepwater port (or in the operator's principal office, in the case of an unmanned deepwater port) and make it available to the OCMI.

Personal Safety Gear
top
§ 150.518   What are the inspection requirements for work vests and immersion suits?
top

(a) All work vests and immersion suits must be inspected by the owner or operator pursuant to §150.105 of this part, to determine whether they are in serviceable condition.

(b) If a work vest or immersion suit is inspected and is in serviceable condition, then it may be continued in service. If not, then it must be removed from the deepwater port.

Emergency Lighting and Power Systems
top
§ 150.519   What are the requirements for emergency lighting and power systems?
top

(a) The operator must test and inspect the emergency lighting and power systems at least once each week to determine if they are in proper operating condition. If they are not in proper operating condition, then the operator must repair or replace their defective parts.

(b) The operator must test under load each emergency generator driven by an internal combustion engine that is used for an emergency lighting and power system at least once in each month for a minimum of 2 hours.

(c) The operator must test each storage battery for the emergency lighting and power systems, at least once in each 6 months, to demonstrate the ability of the batteries to supply the emergency loads for an 8-hour period. The operator must follow the manufacturer's instructions in performing the battery test to ensure the batteries are not damaged during testing.

Fire Extinguishing Equipment
top
§ 150.520   When must fire extinguishing equipment be tested and inspected?
top

The operations manual must specify how and when the operator will test and inspect each hand-portable fire extinguisher, semi-portable fire extinguisher, and fixed fire-extinguishing system. These specifications must accord with 46 CFR 31.10–18.

§ 150.521   What records are required?
top

(a) The operator must maintain a record of each test and inspection under §150.520 on the deepwater port (or in the operator's principal office, in the case of an unmanned deepwater port) for at least 2 years.

(b) The record must show:

(1) The date of each test and inspection;

(2) The number or other identification of each fire extinguisher or system tested or inspected; and

(3) The name of the person who conducted the test or inspection and the name of the company that person represents.

Miscellaneous Operations
top
§ 150.530   What may the fire-main system be used for?
top

The fire-main system may be used only for firefighting and for deck washing, unless it is capable of being isolated and can provide the applicable minimum pressures required outlined in §149.416 of this chapter.

§ 150.531   How many fire pumps must be kept ready for use at all times?
top

At least one of the fire pumps required by this subchapter must be kept ready for use at all times.

§ 150.532   What are the requirements for connection and stowage of fire hoses?
top

(a) At least one length of fire-hose, with a combination nozzle, must be connected to each fire hydrant at all times. If in a location exposed to the weather, the fire-hose may be removed from the hydrant during freezing weather.

(b) When not in use, fire-hose connected to a fire hydrant must be stowed on a hose rack.

(c) The hydrant nearest the edge of a deck must have enough lengths of fire-hose connected to it to allow 10 feet of hose, when pressurized, to curve over the edge.

§ 150.540   What are the restrictions on fueling aircraft?
top

If the deepwater port is not equipped with a permanent fueling facility, the COTP's approval is necessary before aircraft may be fueled at the port.

§ 150.550   What are the requirements for the muster list?
top

(a) A muster list must be posted on each pumping platform complex.

(b) The muster list must:

(1) List the name and title of each person, in order of succession, who is the person in charge of the pumping platform complex for purposes of supervision during an emergency;

(2) List the special duties and duty stations for each person on the pumping platform complex in the event of an emergency that requires the use of equipment covered by part 149 of this chapter; and

(3) Identify the signals for calling persons to their emergency stations and for abandoning the pumping platform complex.

§ 150.555   How must cranes be maintained?
top

Cranes must be operated, maintained, and tested in accordance with subpart F to 46 CFR part 109.

Subpart G—Workplace Safety and Health
top
§ 150.600   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart concerns requirements for workplace safety and health on a deepwater port.

Safety and Health (General)
top
§ 150.601   What are the requirements for workplace safety and health on a deepwater port?
top

(a) Each operator of a deepwater port must ensure compliance, on that port, with the requirements of this subpart, and must ensure that all places of employment within the port are:

(1) Maintained in compliance with workplace safety and health regulations of this subpart; and

(2) Free from recognized hazardous conditions.

(b) Persons responsible for actual operations, including owners, operators, contractors, and subcontractors must ensure that those operations subject to their control are:

(1) Conducted in compliance with workplace safety and health regulations of this subpart; and

(2) Free from recognized hazardous conditions.

(c) The term “recognized hazardous conditions,” as used in this subpart, means conditions that are:

(1) Generally known among persons in the affected industry as causing, or likely to cause, death or serious physical harm to persons exposed to those conditions; and

(2) Routinely controlled in the affected industry.

§ 150.602   What occupational awareness training is required?
top

(a) Each deepwater port operator must ensure that all port personnel are provided with information and training on recognized hazardous conditions in their workplace, including, but not limited to, electrical, mechanical, and chemical hazards. Specific required training topics are outlined in §150.15(u).

(b) As an alternative to compliance with the specific provisions of this subpart, an operator may provide, for workplace safety and health, the implementation of an approved, port-specific safety and environmental management program (SEMP). Operators should consult with the Commandant (G-M) in preparing a SEMP. Five copies of a proposed SEMP must be submitted to the Commandant for evaluation. The Commandant may consult with the local OCMI, and will approve the SEMP if he or she finds that the SEMP provides at least as much protection of workplace safety and health as do the specific provisions of this subpart.

§ 150.603   What emergency response training is required?
top

The requirements for emergency response training must be outlined in the port operations manual.

§ 150.604   Who controls access to medical monitoring and exposure records?
top

If medical monitoring is performed or exposure records are maintained by an employer, the owner, operator, or person in charge must establish procedures for access to these records by personnel.

§ 150.605   What are the procedures for reporting a possible workplace safety or health violation at a deepwater port?
top

Any person may notify the OCMI verbally or in writing of:

(a) A possible violation of a regulation in this part; or

(b) A hazardous or unsafe working condition on any deepwater port.

§ 150.606   After learning of a possible violation, what does the OCMI do?
top

After reviewing the information received under §150.605 to this part and conducting any necessary investigation, the OCMI notifies the owner or operator of any deficiency or hazard and initiates enforcement measures as the circumstances warrant. The identity of any person making a report of a violation will remain confidential, except to the extent necessary for the performance of official duties or as agreed to by the person.

General Workplace Conditions
top
§ 150.607   What are the general safe working requirements?
top

(a) All equipment, including machinery, cranes, derricks, portable power tools, and most importantly safety gear must be used in a safe manner and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended practice, unless otherwise stated in this subchapter.

(b) All machinery and equipment must be maintained in proper working order or removed.

Personal Protective Equipment
top
§ 150.608   Who is responsible for ensuring that personnel use or wear protective equipment and are trained in its use?
top

(a) Each deepwater port operator must ensure that all personnel who are required by this subpart to use or wear personal protective equipment do so when within designated work areas at the port.

(b) Each deepwater port operator must ensure that:

(1) All personnel engaged in the operation are trained in the proper use, limitations, and maintenance of the personal protective equipment specified by this subpart;

(2) The equipment is maintained and used or worn as required by this subpart; and

(3) The equipment is made available and on hand for all personnel engaged in the operation.

Eyes and Face
top
§ 150.609   When is eye and face protection required?
top

The operator must provide eye and face protectors for the use of persons engaged in or observing activities where damage to the eye is possible, such as welding, grinding, machining, chipping, handling hazardous materials, or acetylene burning or cutting. These eye and face protectors must be:

(a) Properly marked and in compliance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.133; and

(b) Maintained in good condition or replaced when necessary.

§ 150.610   Where must eyewash equipment be located?
top

Portable or fixed eyewash equipment providing emergency relief must be immediately available near any area where there is a reasonable probability that eye injury may occur.

Head
top
§ 150.611   What head protection is required?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that where there is a reasonable probability of injury from falling objects or contact with electrical conductors, personnel working or visiting such an area wear head protectors designed to protect them against such injury and complying with 29 CFR 1910.151.

Feet
top
§ 150.612   What footwear is required?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that while personnel are working in an area, or engaged in activities, where there is a reasonable probability for foot injury to occur, they wear footwear that complies with 29 CFR 1910.136, except when environmental conditions exist that present a hazard greater than that against which the footwear is designed to protect.

Noise and Hearing Protection
top
§ 150.613   What are the requirements for a noise monitoring and hearing protection survey?
top

(a) The deepwater port operator must measure noise and provide hearing protection in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.95.

(b) The initial noise survey for a deepwater port must be completed no later than January 1, 2005, or within one year of beginning operations, whichever is later.

Clothing
top
§ 150.614   When is protective clothing required?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that personnel exposed to flying particles, radiant energy, heavy dust, or hazardous materials wear clothing and gloves that protect against the hazard involved.

Electrical
top
§ 150.615   What safe practices are required?
top

(a) The deepwater port operator must ensure that before personnel begin work that might expose them to an electrical charge, they turn off the electricity, unless doing so is not feasible.

(b) The deepwater port operator must ensure that personnel turning off equipment pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section follow the lockout or tagging procedures specified in 29 CFR 1910.147, and in §§150.616 and 150.617.

(c) The deepwater port operator must ensure that, to prevent electrical shock, personnel receive training in electrical, safety-related work practices in the area of the work they perform, including the use of electrical personal protective equipment appropriate to protect against potential electrical hazards.

Lockout/Tagout
top
§ 150.616   What are the requirements for lockout?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that, if equipment (electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, and pneumatic) does not need to be powered during the work described in §150.615(a), and has a lockout or other device to prevent the equipment from being turned on unintentionally, that lockout or other device is activated.

§ 150.617   What are the requirements for tagout?
top

(a) The deepwater port operator must ensure that, before work takes place on equipment that is disconnected from the power source, a tag complying with this section is placed at the location where the power is disconnected. The operator must ensure that, if there is a control panel for the equipment in line between the equipment and the location where the power is disconnected, a tag complying with this section is also placed on the control panel.

(b) Each tag or sign must have words stating:

(1) That equipment is being worked on;

(2) That power must not be restored or the equipment activated; and

(3) The name of the person who placed the tag.

(c) Only the person who placed the tag, that person's immediate supervisor, or the relief person of either, is authorized to remove the tag.

Respiratory Protection
top
§ 150.618   What are the requirements for respiratory protection?
top

(a) The deepwater port operator must ensure that respiratory protection measures are taken in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134 including establishment of a formal respiratory protection program.

(b) The deepwater port operator must ensure that measures for protection from exposure to asbestos are taken in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.1001.

(c) The deepwater port operator must ensure that measures for protection from exposure to inorganic lead are taken in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.1025.

Fall Arrest
top
§ 150.619   What are the fall arrest system requirements?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that all personnel who are exposed to the risk of falling more than 6 feet, or who are at risk of falling any distance onto equipment with irregular surfaces, exposed moving components, electrically energized cables or connectors, or water, are protected against such a fall either by guardrails or other measures that comply with 29 CFR 1910.23 or 1910.28, or by the use of suitable lifesaving equipment that complies with 46 CFR part 160. In addition, the operator must take measures to control the risk of falling, tripping, or slipping in work areas and walkways due to the presence of loose material or wet conditions including spills.

Machine Guards
top
§ 150.620   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from machinery?
top

The deepwater port operator must ensure that all personnel are protected from the risks created by operating machinery through the use of guard devices or other measures that comply with 29 CFR 1910.212, or through the use of conspicuously posted warning signs that comply with 150.626 of this part.

Slings
top
§ 150.621   What are the requirements for slings?
top

The use of slings for material handling must comply with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.184.

Warning Signs
top
§ 150.622   What are the warning sign requirements?
top

The construction and use of warning signs must be in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.144 and 1910.145.

Confined Space Safety
top
§ 150.623   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from hazards associated with confined spaces?
top

(a) All personnel must be protected by suitable measures from inadvertently entering a confined space containing a hazardous atmosphere that can cause death or serious injury.

(b) Each deepwater port operator shall evaluate the port-specific hazards associated with confined space entry and develop a confined space safe entry program that complies with:

(1) 29 CFR 1910.146 for permit-required confined spaces, where applicable; and

(2) A national consensus standard, as that term is defined in 29 CFR 1910.2, or that is set by a nationally recognized testing laboratory as defined in 29 CFR 1910.7 and that provides levels of personnel protection at least equivalent to those provided for shipyard personnel by 29 CFR part 1915, subpart B.

(c) To implement the confined space safe entry program, the deepwater port operator must determine the education, training and experience needed by the designated competent persons to safely conduct their duties, including:

(1) Identification, testing, and certification of confined spaces; and

(2) Training of personnel regarding dangers, etc.

(d) These measures must be specified in the port operations manual, along with a list of all confined spaces on the port, describing the specific hazards associated with each such space.

Blood-Borne Pathogens
top
§ 150.624   What are the requirements for protecting personnel from blood-borne pathogens?
top

Measures for protection from the dangers of blood-borne pathogens must be taken in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.1030.

Hazard Communication Program
top
§ 150.625   What must the hazard communication program contain?
top

(a) Each deepwater port must have a hazard communication program (HCP) available for the training of, and review by, all personnel on the deepwater port.

(b) The program must be in writing and describe or include:

(1) An inventory of each hazardous material on the deepwater port;

(2) The potential hazards of the material;

(3) The material's intended use on the deepwater port;

(4) The methods for handling and storing the material;

(5) The protective measures and equipment to be used to avoid hazardous exposure;

(6) The labeling, marking, or tagging of the material;

(7) The special precautions, such as lockout and tagout under §§150.616–150.617, that should be emphasized when working around the material;

(8) Information and training required for personnel onboard the deepwater port; and

(9) A material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the material.

(c) The information on a material safety data sheet on the material may be used as a substitute for items in paragraph (b) of this section that are addressed in the sheet.

(d) The program must be supplemented as necessary to address each hazardous material newly introduced on the deepwater port.

§ 150.626   What is the hazard communication program used for?
top

(a) The hazard communication program must ensure that all deepwater port employees, when required by their duties, work safely and responsibly with hazardous materials.

(b) The person in charge for safety must ensure that, before a person is allowed to work at the deepwater port:

(1) A copy of the hazard communication program is made available to the person; and

(2) The person is trained in the information contained in the program.

(c) The training must be supplemented to address each hazardous material newly introduced on the deepwater port.

§ 150.627   Must material safety data sheets be available to all personnel?
top

(a) The person in charge must ensure that a material safety data sheet (MSDS) for each hazardous material on the fixed or floating deepwater port is made available to all personnel on the port.

(b) Each MSDS must contain at least information on the use, proper storage, potential hazards, and appropriate protective and response measures to be taken when exposed to or handling the material.

§ 150.628   How must the operator label, tag, and mark a container of hazardous material?
top

The operator must label, tag, or mark each container of hazardous material with the identity of the hazardous material and the appropriate physical, health, reactivity and other special condition hazard warnings. The only exception is for portable containers for transferring a hazardous material from a labeled container to the work site for immediate use by the person who performs the transfer.

Subpart H—Aids to Navigation
top
§ 150.700   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart provides requirements for the operation of aids to navigation at a deepwater port.

§ 150.705   What are the requirements for maintaining and inspecting aids to navigation?
top

(a) All aids to navigation must be maintained in proper operating condition at all times.

(b) The Coast Guard may inspect all aids to navigation at any time without notice.

§ 150.710   What are the requirements for supplying power to aids to navigation?
top

The power to all aids to navigation must be maintained, at all times, at or above the level recommended by the equipment's manufacturer.

§ 150.715   What are the requirements for lights used as aids to navigation?
top

(a) Each light under part 149, subpart E of this chapter, used as an aid to navigation at a deepwater port, must be lit continuously from sunset to sunrise.

(b) During construction, a platform or SPM (if positioned on the surface or within the net under-keel depth for tankers transiting within the safety zone) must be marked with at least one of the following:

(1) The obstruction lights required for the structure in part 149, subpart E, of this chapter;

(2) The fixed lights of a vessel attending the structure; or

(3) The general illumination lights on the structure, if they meet or exceed the intensity required for obstruction lights required for the structure.

(c) The focal plane of each obstruction light and rotating lighted beacon must always coincide with the horizontal plane that passes through the light source.

§ 150.720   What are the requirements for sound signals?
top

The sound signal on each pumping platform complex must be operated whenever the visibility in any horizontal direction from the structure is less than 5 miles. If the platform is under construction, this requirement may be met by the use of a 2-second whistle blast, made every 20 seconds by a vessel moored at the platform.

Subpart I—Reports and Records
top
§ 150.800   What does this subpart do?
top

This subpart concerns reports that must be submitted, and records that must be kept, by the licensee.

Reports
top
§ 150.805   What reports must be sent both to a classification society and to the Coast Guard?
top

A copy of each report submitted to an authorized classification society, as defined in 46 CFR 8.100 for maintenance of an SPM's class under the rules of that society, must also be submitted to the OCMI.

§ 150.810   Reporting a problem with an aid to navigation.
top

(a) Any problem affecting the operation or characteristics of an aid to navigation at the deepwater port must be reported, by the fastest means available, to the District Commander. The report must identify:

(1) The aid to navigation affected;

(2) The location of that aid;

(3) The nature of the problem; and

(4) The estimated time of repair.

(b) When the problem is corrected, the District Commander must be notified.

§ 150.815   How must casualties be reported?
top

(a) Immediately after aiding the injured and stabilizing the situation, the owner, operator, or person in charge of a deepwater port must notify the nearest Marine Safety Office, Coast Guard Activity, or Coast Guard Group Office of each event on, or involving, the deepwater port that results in one or more of the following:

(1) Loss of life;

(2) An injury that requires professional medical treatment (treatment beyond first aid) and, if the person is engaged or employed on the deepwater port, that renders the individual unfit to perform his or her routine duties;

(3) Impairment to the operation of any of the port's primary lifesaving or fire-fighting equipment; or

(4) Property damage in excess of $100,000, including damage resulting from a vessel or aircraft striking the port. This amount includes the cost of labor and material to restore all affected items, including, but not limited to, the port and the vessel or aircraft to their condition before the damage. This amount does not include the cost of salvage, cleaning, gas freeing, dry-docking, or demurrage of the port, vessel, or aircraft.

(b) The notice under paragraph (a) of this section must identify the following:

(1) The deepwater port involved;

(2) The owner, operator, or person in charge of the port;

(3) The nature and circumstances of the event; and

(4) The nature and extent of the injury and damage resulting from the event.

§ 150.820   When must a written report of casualty be submitted and what must it contain?
top

(a) In addition to the notice of casualty under §150.815, the owner, operator, or person in charge of a deepwater port must submit a written report of the event to the nearest OCMI within 5 days after the notice of casualty. The report may be on Form 2692 (Report of Marine Accident, Injury, or Death) or in narrative form if it contains all of the applicable information requested in Form 2692. Copies of Form 2692 are available from the OCMI.

(b) The written report must also include the information relating to alcohol and drug involvement specified by 46 CFR 4.05–12.

(c) If filed immediately after the event, the written report required by paragraph (a) of this section serves as the notice required under §150.815.

§ 150.825   Reporting a diving-related casualty.
top

Diving-related deaths and injuries within the safety zone of a deepwater port must be reported according to 46 CFR 197.484 and 197.486, rather than to §§150.815 and 150.820.

§ 150.830   Reporting a pollution incident.
top

Oil pollution incidents involving a deepwater port are reported according to §135.305 and 135.307 of this chapter.

§ 150.835   Reporting sabotage or a subversive activity.
top

The owner, operator, or person in charge of a deepwater port must immediately report to the COTP, by the fastest possible means, any evidence of sabotage or subversive activity against any vessel at the deepwater port or against the deepwater port itself.

Records
top
§ 150.840   What records must be kept?
top

(a) The licensee must keep copies at the deepwater port of the reports, records, test results, and operating data required by this part. In the case of unmanned deepwater ports, these copies must be kept at the operator's principal office rather than on the port.

(b) The copies must be readily available to Coast Guard inspectors.

(c) Except for personnel records under §150.845, the copies must be kept for 3 years.

§ 150.845   Personnel records.
top

The licensee must keep documentation on the designation and qualification of the supervisory positions, outlined in the port operations manual, that are responsible for the management of the deepwater port. These records must be kept for the life of the deepwater port.

§ 150.850   How long must a declaration of inspection form be kept?
top

The licensee must keep signed copies of the declaration of inspection forms required by §150.430 for one month from the date of signature.

Subpart J—Safety Zones, No Anchoring Areas, and Areas To Be Avoided
top
§ 150.900   What does this subpart do?
top

(a) This subpart provides requirements for the establishment, restrictions, and location of safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided around deepwater ports.

(b) Subpart D of this part, concerning vessel navigation and activities permitted and prohibited at deepwater ports, applies within safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided and their adjacent waters and supplements the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

(c) Recommended shipping safety fairways, associated with deepwater ports, are described in part 166 of this chapter.

§ 150.905   Why are safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided established?
top

Safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided under this subchapter are established to promote safety of life and property, marine environmental protection, and navigational safety at deepwater ports and adjacent waters. Safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided accomplish these objectives by preventing or controlling specific activities, limiting access by vessels or persons, and by protecting the living resources of the sea from harmful agents.

§ 150.910   What installations, structures, or activities are prohibited in a safety zone and area to be avoided?
top

No installations, structures, or activities that are incompatible with port operations are allowed in the safety zone and area to be avoided of a deepwater port.

§ 150.915   How are safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided established and modified?
top

(a) Safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided are developed and designated during the application process for a deepwater port license and may be modified according to this section.

(b) Before a safety zone, no anchoring area, and area to be avoided is established, all factors detrimental to safety, including the congestion of vessels, the presence of unusually harmful or hazardous substances, and the presence of obstructions around the site of the deepwater port, are considered.

(c) Commandant (G-M) shall establish safety zones and develop no anchoring areas and areas to be avoided for presentation to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for approval. Commandant (G-M) may consult with the District Commander prior to establishing safety zones. Once established, the District Commander may request that Commandant (G-M) modify an existing safety zone. The Commandant (G-M) may then publish a final rule modifying the zone and area in its regulations. Routing measures requiring approval by the International Maritime Organization in order to be effective will be effective only after such approval is granted and such approval is announced by subsequent notice in the Federal Register.

(d) When there is an imminent threat to the safety of life and property within the zone and area, the District Commander may modify the safety zone and its regulations in an interim rule without first requesting that Commandant (G-M) publish a notice of proposed rulemaking. The interim rule makes the safety zone, no anchoring area, and area to be avoided and the regulations thereto effective on publication in the Federal Register, provided those routing measures requiring approval at the International Maritime Organization have received that approval, and requests public comments. After considering the comments received, the Commandant (G-M), after consulting with the District Commander, shall publish a final rule, which may adopt the interim rule with or without changes or remove it.

(e) If required by circumstances, safety zones and areas to be avoided may be placed into effect immediately but must be followed promptly by the procedures in paragraph (d) of this section.

§ 150.920   How is notice given of new or proposed safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided?
top

In addition to documents published in the Federal Register under §150.915, the District Commander may provide public notice of new or proposed safety zones, no anchoring areas, and areas to be avoided by Broadcast Notices to Mariners, Notices to Mariners, Local Notices to Mariners, newspapers, broadcast stations, or other means.

§ 150.925   How long may a safety zone, no anchoring area, and area to be avoided last?
top

A safety zone, no anchoring area, and area to be avoided and applicable regulations may go into effect as early as when equipment and materials for construction of the deepwater port arrive at the site and may remain in effect until the deepwater port is removed.

§ 150.930   What datum is used for the geographic coordinates in this subpart?
top

The geographic coordinates used in this subpart are not intended for plotting on charts or maps using coordinates based on the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83). If you use the geographic coordinates in this subpart to plot on a chart or map referencing NAD 83, you must make corrections as shown on the chart or map.

§ 150.940   Safety zones for specific deepwater ports.
top

(a) Louisiana Offshore Oil Port (LOOP): (1) The location of the safety zone for LOOP is as described in Table 150.940(A):

          Table 150.940(A)_Safety Zone for Loop, Gulf of Mexico------------------------------------------------------------------------               Latitude N                           Longitude W------------------------------------------------------------------------(i) Starting at:    28°55[min]23[sec]...............  90°00[min]37[sec](ii) A rhumb line to:    28°53[min]50[sec]...............  90°04[min]07[sec](iii) Then an arc with a 4,465 meter (4,883 yard) radius centered at the port's pumping platform complex:    28°53[min]06[sec]...............  90°01[min]30[sec](iv) To a point:    28°51[min]07[sec]...............  90°03[min]06[sec](v) Then a rhumb line to:    28°50[min]09[sec]...............  90°02[min]24[sec](vi) Then a rhumb line to:    28°49[min]05[sec]...............  89°55[min]54[sec](vii) Then a rhumb line to:    28°48[min]36[sec]...............  89°55[min]00[sec](viii) Then a rhumb line to:    28°52[min]04[sec]...............  89°52[min]42[sec](ix) Then a rhumb line to:    28°53[min]10[sec]...............  89°53[min]42[sec](x) Then a rhumb line to:    28°54[min]52[sec]...............  89°57[min]00[sec](xi) Then a rhumb line to:    28°54[min]52[sec]...............  89°59[min]36[sec](xii) Then an arc with a 4,465 meter (4,883 yard) radius centered again at the port's pumping platform complex;(xiii) To the point of starting:    28°55[min]23[sec]...............  90°00[min]37[sec]------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) The areas to be avoided within the safety zone are:

(i) The area encompassed within a circle having a 600 meter radius around the port's pumping platform complex and centered at:

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------               Latitude N                          Longitude W------------------------------------------------------------------------28°53[min]06[sec]..................  90°-1[min]30[sec]------------------------------------------------------------------------

(ii) The six areas encompassed within a circle having a 500 meter radius around each single point mooring (SPM) at the port and centered at:

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------               Latitude N                          Longitude W------------------------------------------------------------------------28°54[min]12[sec]..................  90°00[min]37[sec]28°53[min]16[sec]..................  89°59[min]59[sec]28°52[min]15[sec]..................  90°00[min]19[sec]28°51[min]45[sec]..................  90°01[min]25[sec]28°52[min]08[sec]..................  90°02[min]33[sec]28°53[min]07[sec]..................  90°03[min]02[sec]------------------------------------------------------------------------

(3) The anchorage area within the safety zone is an area enclosed by the rhumb lines joining points at:

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------               Latitude N                          Longitude W------------------------------------------------------------------------28°52[min]21[sec]..................  89°57[min]47[sec]28°54[min]05[sec]..................  89°56[min]38[sec]28°52[min]04[sec]..................  89°52[min]42[sec]28°50[min]20[sec]..................  89°53[min]51[sec]28°52[min]21[sec]..................  89°57[min]47[sec]------------------------------------------------------------------------

(b) The Gulf Gateway Deepwater Port (GGDWP)—(1) Description. The GGDWP safety zone is centered at the following coordinates: 28°05'16" N, 093°03'07" W. This safety zone, encompassed within a circle having a 500 meter radius around the primary component of the Gulf Gateway Deepwater Port, the submerged loading turret (buoy) and the pipeline end manifold (STL/PLEM), is located approximately 116 miles off the Louisiana coast at West Cameron Area, South Addition Block 603 “A”.

(2) Regulations. Deepwater port support vessels desiring to enter the safety zone must contact and obtain permission from the LNG Regasification Vessel (LNGRV) stationed at the deepwater port. The LNGRV can be contacted on VHF-FM Channel 13.

[USCG–1998–3884, 69 FR 52830, Aug. 30, 2004, as amended by USCG–2005–21111, 70 FR 24709, May 11, 2005]

Browse Previous


chanrobles.com