OCSNCOE Unit Emblem (silhouettes of a self-elevating MODU, an OSV and an offshore wind turbine over a silhouette of the United States with the U.S. Coast Guard mark (i.e., racing stripe) in the background).Outer Continental Shelf National Center of Expertise (OCSNCOE)

JACK ST. MALO during offshore construction with attending OSV and Floatel VICTORY. C-ENFORCER underway with water cannons flowing. SEVAN LOUISIANA underway when initially entering the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Platform GINA off the California coast. Block Island windfarm with attending CTV. SPARTAN 151 dockside in Seward, AK.

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Policy and Guidance - Vessels involved in OCS Activities (Oil, Gas and Minerals)

Note: Page tabs may appear collapsed or as a menu near the top of the page on mobile devices or lower screen resolutions.

Information pertaining to support vessels involved in non-mineral OCS activities can be found via our "Non-Mineral Support Vessels" page.

The content listed below is available on this page. Use the tabs above to view the following categories:

  1) COMDTINST 16000.7x series, Marine Safety (previously MSM Volume II);

  2) Reference Books and Guides (compiled by subject);

  3) Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs), including "Old" CFRs;

  4) National Policy;

  5) District Eight (Gulf of Mexico) Policy;

  6) Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs);

  7) USCG Mission Management System (MMS) Work Instructions (WIs);

  8) Marine Safety Information Bulletins (MSIBs); and

  9) Inspection job aids (replaced CG-840 books).


 

COMDTINST 16000.76, Marine Safety: OCS Inspections (previously Section G of the Marine Safety Manual, Volume II)

Vessels that support or conduct OCS Activities fall under numerous vessel types and categories. The majority of the vessels that are involved in this work are Offshore Supply Vessels (OSVs), Industrial Vessels or Small Passenger Vessels. These vessels are mostly regulated under 46 CFR Subchapters L, I and T, respectively. 46 CFR Subchapters D, F, J, O and S and 33 CFR also have applicabilities to these vessel types. For vessels involved in OCS Activities, the following chapters of COMDTINST 16000.76, Marine Safety: Outer Continental Shelf Inspections apply:

  • Chapter 1, Regulations, Policy and Guidance for a Unit Conducting an OCS Activity, and
  • Chapter 6, Procedures Applicable to Other Vessels Engaged in OCS Activities.

This Commandant Instruction replaced Marine Safety Manual (MSM), Volume II: Section G - OCS Activities (cancelled 20Sep2021 and listed here for historical reference only). Note that there was no content change with the republishing of MSM Vol II Section G as a separate Commandant Instruction on 20Sep2021, but future content revisions are planned.

Additional sections of the marine safety series that may apply to support vessels that conduct OCS activities follow (e.g, U.S. flagged OSVs, foreign units entering port, etc.).


 

Reference Books and Guides (compiled by subject)

Reference "Books" and Guides (by subject):

  ○  Accommodations

  ○  Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Guide

  ○  Introduction to Dynamic Positioning (DP) Systems

  ○  Vessel General Permit


 

Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs)

CFRs that pertain to support vessels are as follows:

Primary subchapters for the vessel type -
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter I - Cargo and Miscellaneous Vessels (often referred to as Industrial Vessels)
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter L - Offshore Supply Vessels
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter T - Small Passenger Vessels (Under 100 Gross Tons)

Additional subchapters that apply (not all will apply to each of the vessels inspected under the subchapters listed above) -
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter A - Procedures Applicable to the Public
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter B - Merchant Marine Officers and Seamen
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter E - Load Lines
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter F - Marine Engineering
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter G - Documentation and Measurement of Vessels
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter J - Electrical Engineering
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter Q - Equipment, Construction and Materials: Specifications and Approval
  ○  46 CFR Subchapter S - Subdivision and Stability

Note that 46 CFR Subchapters D, I-A, N, O, V or W, or portions thereof, may also be utilized for vessels with specific arrangements/equipment or involved in specific operations.

  ○  33 CFR Subchapter D - International Navigation Rules
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter E - Inland Navigation Rules
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter F - Vessel Operating Regulations
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter H - Maritime Security (Parts 101, 103 and 104)
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter N - Outer Continental Shelf Activities
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter O - Pollution
  ○  33 CFR Subchapter P - Ports and Waterways Safety

Also note that 33 CFR Subchapter A also has applicability in regards to administration and legal actions.

Additional CFRs that apply to certain operations or equipment -
  ○  29 CFR Part 1915 - Occupational Safety and Health Standards for Shipyard Employment (the source for confined space entry requirements)
  ○  47 CFR Part 80 - Stations in the Maritime Services (radio communication installation requirements)

CFRs can be viewed at ecfr.gov (regularly updated online version) or govinfo.gov (annual editions).


"Old" CFRs

Old editions of the CFRs are available as follows (click on the "year" to open the document) for 'grandfathered' vessels:

  ○  46 CFR Subchapter I, 1995 edition ("Old I") and 1963 edition ("Old-Old I")

  ○  46 CFR Subchapter J, 1995 edition ("Old J") and 1981 edition ("Old-Old J")

  ○  46 CFR Subchapter T, 1995 edition ("Old T")


 

National Policy

National policy letters that apply to support vessels (OSVs, to include Liftboats, and small passenger vessels supporting oil and gas operations) are listed in the table below, grouped by issuing authority and ordered from newest to oldest (by policy number/original issue date). Click on the policy number to open the document (opens in a new window).

Office Policy Number Date Issued Subject
Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC; formerly CG-543, G-3PCV, G-PCV, and G-MOC)
CG-CVC 23-23 26Oct2023 "Covered Small Passenger Vessel" Fire Safety Interim Rule Implementation
CG-CVC 23-01 29Aug2023 Guidance for Vessel Requests to Participate in Hurricane Relief Operations (policy expires 31Jan2024)
CG-CVC 22-03 29Sep2022 Guidance for Vessel Requests to Participate in Hurricane Relief Operations (EXPIRED 31Jan2023; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
CG-CVC 18-04 03Apr2018 Guidance on Implementation of New Standards for Fire Protection, Detection and Extinguishing Equipment
CG-CVC 17-09 27Nov2017 Issuance and Acceptance of Electronic Certificates
CG-CVC 17-08 19Oct2017 Inspection of Machinery Alarms on Small Passenger Vessels
CG-CVC 17-07 19Oct2017 Required Plan Review and Design Verification Testing on Small Passenger Vessels
Reference (a) and Reference (b) are available as attachments within CG-CVC PL 17-07 or by clicking on the aforementioned links.
CG-CVC 14-03 06Apr2015 Evaluating Sea Service aboard Liftboats
CG-CVC Change Notice 30Jul2014 Policy Cancellations – COMDTCHANGENOTE 16000, CH-1 to MSM Vol III
CG-CVC Change Notice 24Jun2014 Policy Cancellations – COMDTCHANGENOTE 16000, CH-1 to MSM Vol II
CG-CVC 13-02 05May2013 MARPOL Annex VI International Energy Efficiency (IEE) Certificate Implementation Guidance
CG-CVC 13-01 26Feb2013 Interim Guidance for Revised MARPOL Annex V Implementation
CG-CVC 12-08 15Oct2012 Guidance Implementing the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships
(CANCELLED, see 25Jun2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol II (linked in this table); policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
CG-CVC 12-05 11Oct2012 Hours of Rest – Implementation of the 2010 Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 
(SUPERSEDED, see 30Jul2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol III (linked in this table); policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
CG-CVC 12-04 25Jul2012 Guidelines for Compliance and Enforcement of the Emission Control Areas Established within the United States Jurisdiction as Designated in MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 14 
(CANCELLED by 
CVC-WI-022(1) dated 13Jan2020; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
CG-CVC 12-03 01Jun2012 Endorsement of Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV) as Oil Spill Response Vessels (OSRV)
CG-543 11-04 13Apr2011 Compliance Verification of Alternative Security Program for MTSA Regulated Vessels and Facilities
CG-543 11-01 11Feb2011 Guidelines for Coast Guard Evaluations of Compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP) for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation of Vessels
CG-543 10-05 26Nov2010 Electronic Navigation Publications onboard U.S. Vessels
CG-543 10-01 04Mar2010 Use of Single Voyage Load Line Authorizations
CG-543 09-02 12Aug2009 Industry Guidelines for Requesting Alternate Planning Criteria Approval, One Time Waivers and Interim Operating Authorization
CG-543 09-01 04Feb2009 Guidelines for Ensuring Compliance with Annex VI to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 73/78; Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (CVC-WI-022(1) applies to Annex VI Regulation 14; the Work Instruction takes precedence if it conflicts with Policy Letter 09-01)
CG-543 07-02 04Mar2008 Guidance on the Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of Liftboats (Enclosure (1), Paragraph 13 was superseded by CH-1 to Marine Safety Manual Vol III on 30Jul2014; see 30Jul2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol III (linked in this table))
CG-3PCV 06-09 22Dec2009 Implementation of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 73/78; Annex I Revised
G-PCV 06-05 28Jul2006 Regulatory Interpretation for Notice of Arrival
(CANCELLED, see 25Jun2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol II; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
G-MOC 05-02 03May2005 Guidelines for Interim Voluntary Implementation of Annex VI to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 73/78; Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships
G-MOC 04-13,
Rev-1
24Mar2005 Guidelines for the Inspection of Oily Water Monitor and Separator Systems
G-MOC 04-06 10Aug2004 Guidance for Ballast Water Regulations
G-MOC 04-05 29Mar2004 Guidance when Considering Exemptions from the SOLAS Requirement to Carry Voyage Data Recorders (VDR)
G-MOC 04-02 17May2004 Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Operator Requirements
G-MOC 03-03 08Sep2003 Guidelines for Equivalent Compliance with (Revised) MARPOL 73/78 Annex IV (Sewage)
G-MOC 02-03 12Jul2002 Policy for the Enforcement of the 1995 Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW 95) on board U.S. Flag Vessels 
(SUPERSEDED, see 30Jul2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol III (linked in this table); policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
G-MOC 01-01 13Apr2001 Cargo Ship Fixed Fire-Extinguishing System SOLAS Exemptions
G-MOC 4-00, 
Rev-1
26Apr2001 Watchkeeping and Work-Hour Limitations on Towing Vessels, Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV) & Crew Boats Utilizing a Two Watch System 
(SUPERSEDED, see 30Jul2014 Change Notice to MSM Vol III (linked in this table); policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
G-MOC 00-02 22May2000 Five-Year Certificate of Inspection (COI) and SOLAS Survey Intervals
Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG; formerly CG-521, G-3PSE, G-PSE, and G-MSE)
CG-ENG 01-24 10Apr2024 Guidance Regarding Devices that Alter Maneuvering Characteristics of Ships to Ensure Safe Operation in Waters of the United States
CG-ENG 03-23 20Nov2023 Guidance for the U.S. Implementation of the Code for the Transport and Handling of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Supply Vessels - OSV Chemical Code
CG-ENG 02-23 02Aug2023 USCG Acceptance of IMO Guidelines for Hydrostatic Testing of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Cylinders Associated with Fixed Gas Fire Extinguishing Systems
The referenced IMO guidelines are found in MSC.1/Circ.1318/Rev.1: Revised Guidelines for the Maintenance and Inspections of Fixed Carbon Dioxide Fire-Extinguishing Systems (click on name to access).
CG-ENG 01-23 17Mar2023 Design Basis Agreement Submission Guidance
CG-ENG 03-21 02Aug2021 Acceptance of Helicopter Safety Advisory Committee (HSAC) Recommended Practice (RP) 161, New Build Helideck Design Guidelines
CG-ENG 02-21 01Aug2021 Adoption of ANSI/CAN/UL 12402-4 (Level 100 lifejackets deemed equivalent to 46 CFR 160.055 life preservers)
CG-ENG 01-18 01May2018 Equivalency Determination – FRP Gratings Conforming to ASTM F3059
CG-ENG 01-16 29Apr2016 Portable Accommodations Module (PAM) Guidance
CG-ENG 03-15 03Sep2015 Acceptance of CAP-437, Standards for Offshore Helicopter Landing Areas
CG-ENG 02-14 30Apr2014 Approval of Equivalencies to the Requirements for Odorizing Units on Fixed Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishing Systems
CG-ENG 01-14 04Mar2014 Lifeboat Release Mechanisms: Policy on Implementation of New SOLAS Regulation III/1.5 and IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1392
CG-ENG 05-12 07Sep2012 Policy on the Implementation of Additional Personnel Safety Requirements for Carbon Dioxide Fire Suppression Systems
CG-ENG 03-12, CH-1 16May2022

Policy on the Implementation of IMO Resolution A.673(16), Guidelines for the Transport and Handling of Limited Amounts of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Support Vessels, for New and Existing Offshore Supply Vessels 


Original CG-ENG Policy Letter 03-12, issued 15May2012 and CANCELLED by CG-ENG PL 03-12, CH-1, is available here; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)

Office of Operating and Environmental Standards (CG-OESformerly CG-522, G-3PSO, G-PSO, and G-MSO)
CG-OES 02-20 14Oct2020 Commercial Diving Operations - Equivalent Levels of Safety
Marine Safety Center (MSC)
MSC Technical Note (MTN)
MSC MTN 1-19 07May2019 Guidance on the Carriage of greater than 36 Offshore Workers on Offshore Supply Vessels of less than 6000 GT ITC
MSC MTN 01-18 16Jul2018 Guidance for Establishing Equivalency to UL 1104 Navigation Lights
MSC MTN 02-11, CH-1 11Dec2020 Review of Vital Systems Automation and Dynamic Positioning System Plans
MSC MTN 01-05, CH-1 08Dec2010 Determining Adequate Survivability Associated with Watertight Doors Kept Open during Navigation per SOLAS II-1/15.9.3
MSC MTN 4-00 30Aug2000 Weather Criteria for Liftboat Leg Strength
MSC MTN 03-00, CH-1 06Feb2014 Means of Escape from Main Machinery Spaces on Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV)
MSC MTN 02-00, CH-2 19Mar2013 Longitudinal Extent of Machinery Spaces on Offshore Supply Vessels
MSC MTN 01-10, CH-1 09May2022 Marine Safety Center Review of Systems Containing Plastic Pipe
Plan Review Guideline (PRG)
MSC PRG E2-24 14Dec2021 Review of Dynamic Positioning Systems
MSC PRG E2-07 13Oct2021 Review of Electrical One-Line Diagrams
National Maritime Center (NMC)
NMC 05-01 06Mar2001 Lifeboatmen and Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) Qualifications for Service on Vessels not Equipped with Lifeboats

 

District Eight (Gulf of Mexico) Policy

D8 policy letters that apply to support vessels (OSVs, to include Liftboats, and small passenger vessels supporting oil and gas operations) are listed in the table below, grouped by issuing authority and ordered from newest to oldest (by policy number/original issue date). Click on the policy number to open the document (opens in a new window).

Note that policy letter numbers for all policies listed from 1999 and earlier do NOT have a policy number referenced on the letter itself, but the policy number listed was assigned by D8 for tracking purposes.

Policy Number Date Issued Subject
01-2017 01Sep2017 Temporary Emergency Berthing Vessels
Cancellation Notice 11Jul2014 Policy Cancellations - Memo detailing the cancellation of D8(m) Policy Letters
05-10 19Nov2010 Eighth District Guidance Regarding Implementation of MARPOL Annex II and IMO Resolution A.673 for Existing OSVs
02-2004 02Apr2004 Foreign Crewmembers Working on board Offshore Supply Vessels
01-2004 30Jun2004 Machinery Automation Trial Period for Reduced Manning
01-2003 22Jan2003 Use of Dynamic Positioning (DP) by Offshore Supply Vessels (OSVs) for Oil and Hazmat Transfers
01-2002 25Oct2002 Delegation of Authority to OCMIs to Grant Drydock Extensions
09-2001 05Jul2001 Certification of Multi-Service OSVs
(CANCELLED 26Jun2023 by CVC-WI-032(1) and was incorporated as Enclosure (1) to the Work Instruction; included here for historical reference purposes only)

See CVC-WI-032(1) for current guidance for multi-certificated vessels.
99-18 25Aug1999 Rescue Boats on Liftboats
99-16 19Aug1999 OSV Exemption from IMO Resolution A.673(16)
07-1999 14Jul1999 Loadline Extension Authority up to 150 Days for Approved Assignment Authority
99-06 03Mar1999 Issuing COI Amendments (CG-858) 
(CANCELLED 11Jul2014 by D8 OCS Memo (linked in this table), incorporated into MSM Vol II, Sec G; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
98-31 12Nov1998 Rescue Boat Requirements on OSVs
98-21 09Oct1998 Persons Allowed on Liftboats
09-1998 25Sep1998 Detainment of Vessels after a Serious Marine Incident
98-03 13Apr1998 Standardization of Evaluation and Crediting Sea Service on Liftboats
04-1998 06Apr1998 Drug and Alcohol Testing
97-20 16Jul1997 Tankerman Requirements on OSVs
97-14 30May1997 6000 GT ITC Tonnage Issues for OSVs
97-13 30May1997 Transfer of Excess Fuel from Crew Boats
97-12 22May1997 Route Restrictions on Liftboats Operating in the Gulf of Mexico
(CANCELLED 11Jul2014 by D8 OCS Memo, incorporated into MSM Vol II; policy is included here for historical reference purposes only)
97-11 14May1997 Coastwise Trade Determination
08-1997 13Aug1997 Testing of Liferaft Hydrostatic Release
11-1995 20Nov1995 Eighth District Drug and Alcohol Policy

 

Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs)

NVICs that apply to support vessels (OSVs, to include Liftboats, and small passenger vessels supporting oil and gas operations) are listed in the table below, ordered from newest to oldest (by NVIC number). Click on the NVIC number to open the document (opens in a new window). ALL NVICs can be found on the Official NVIC Page.

NVIC Number Date Issued Subject
2020s
02-24 21Feb2024 Reporting Breaches of Security, Suspicious Activity, Transportation Security Incidents and Cyber Incidents
01-24 20Feb2024 Guidelines for Qualification for National Endorsements for Lifeboatman and Lifeboatman-Limited and STCW Endorsements for Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats and Proficiency in Survival Craft-Limited
2010s
03-19 20Nov2019 Maintenance, Thorough Examination, Operational Testing, Overhaul and Repair of Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear (NVIC 03-19 superseded NVIC 04-07)
02-19, 
CH-2
22Jul2024 CH-2 to Guide to Marine Equipment Approvals Covered by a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) (NVIC 02-19 superseded NVIC 08-04, CH-1)
01-18 01Mar2018 Ballast Water Management for Control of Non-Indigenous Species in Waters of the United States
04-17, 
CH-5
22Nov2023 CH-5 to Guidelines on Qualification for National and STCW Endorsements for Service as Assistant Engineer and Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch on Offshore Supply Vessels, NVIC 04-17, COMDTPUB 16721
03-17, 
CH-5
22Nov2023 CH-5 to Guidelines on Qualification for National and STCW Endorsements for Service as Master and Chief Mate on Offshore Supply Vessels, NVIC 03-17, COMDTPUB 16721
02-17, 
CH-5
22Nov2023 CH-5 to Guidelines on Qualification for National and STCW Endorsements for Service as Chief Engineer on Offshore Supply Vessels, NVIC 02-17, COMDTPUB 16721
01-17, 
CH-5
22Nov2023 CH-5 to Guidelines on Qualification for National and STCW Endorsements for Service as Mate on Offshore Supply Vessels, NVIC 01-17, COMDTPUB 16721
03-16, 
CH-4
28Oct2021 CH-4 to Guidelines for Credentialing Officers of Towing Vessels, NVIC 03-16, COMDTPUB 16721 (NVIC 03-16 superseded NVIC 04-01)
01-16, 
CH-2
21May2020 CH-2 to Use of Electronic Charts and Publications in lieu of Paper Charts, Maps and Publications, NVIC 01-16, COMDTPUB 16700.4
01-15 21Jul2015 Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 4 Marine Casualty Reporting Procedures Guide with Associated Standard Interpretations
02-13, 
CH-1
15Sep2017 CH-1 to Guidance Implementing the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, NVIC 02-13, COMDTPUB P16700.4
2000s
1-09, 
CH-1
18Aug2018 CH-1 to Voluntary Compliance with International Sewage Regulations in Annex IV to MARPOL 73/78
01-08 28Jan2008 Shipboard Inspection and Testing of Immersion Suits
02-07 09Mar2007 Guidance on the Coast Guard’s Roles and Responsibilities for Offshore Renewable Energy Installations (OREI)
01-05, incl
CH-1
13Jan2006 Interim Guidance for the Development and Review of Response Plans for Nontank Vessels
10-04 20Aug2004 Guidelines for Handling of Sensitive Security Information (SSI)
03-04 07Jan2004 Guidance for the Development of Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plans for Noxious Liquid Substances Pursuant to Regulation 16 of Annex II of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78) on U.S. Flag Vessels and Compliance Determinations on Foreign Flag Vessels
04-03, incl
CH-1 thru 3
23Apr2008 Guidance for Verification of Vessel Security Plans on Domestic Vessels in Accordance with the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) Regulations and International Ship & Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code
9-01 30Nov2001 Guidance on STCW Quality Standards Systems (QSS) for Merchant Mariner Courses or Training Programs
8-01, 
CH-3
24Apr2017 Approval of Navigation Equipment for Ships
6-01 25May2001 Protective Equipment Required for Firefighter’s Outfits
09-00,
CH-1
10Feb2005 CH-1 to NVIC 09-00; Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishing System Safety
7-00 04Aug2000 Clarification of the Application of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended, to Vessels less than 200 Gross Register Tons (GRT)
3-00 11May2000 Manning and Training Guidance for Fast Rescue Boats on United States Vessels
1990s
10-99 10Sep1999 Interpretations of SOLAS Chapter II-2
5-99,
CH-1
13Oct2006 Guidance Regarding Voluntary Compliance with the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention (International Safety management (ISM) Code)
3-99 29Jan1999 Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) Equipment Requirements for Commercial Vessels
2-99 - Guidance on the Streamlined Inspection Program
10-97 07Nov1997 Guidelines for Cargo Securing Manual Approval
9-97,
CH-1
02Jul2010 CH-1 to NVIC 9-97, Guide to Structural Fire Protection
3-97 - Stability Related Review Performed by the American Bureau of Shipping for U.S. Flag Vessels
3-95 19Jul1995 Periodic Inspection and Testing of Fixed Halon Fire Fighting Equipment aboard Merchant Vessels
02-95,
CH-3
02Oct2018 The Alternate Compliance Program (ACP)
9-94 23Nov1994 Guidelines for Training and Certification in the Use of Marine Radar
6-94,
CH-1
- Guidance for Issuing International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificates under Annex I of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL 73/78)
2-94 15Mar1994 Guidance Regarding Voluntary Compliance with the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention
(CANCELLED, see MSM Vol II; included here for historical reference purposes only)
1-94 21Jan1994 Marking of Life Preservers and PFDs
11-93,
CH-3
21Nov2003 CH-3 to NVIC 11-93, Applicability of Tonnage Measurement Systems to U.S. Flag Vessels
13-92 15Dec1992 Captain of the Port Zone Boundaries 
(CANCELLED 15Jul2021, see 
86 FR 37238included here for historical reference purposes only)
11-92 23Oct1992 Guidance for Acceptance of the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI) National Board Inspection Code (NBIC) for Repairs and Alterations to Boilers and Pressure Vessels
10-92,
CH-2
04May2006 CH-2 to NVIC 10-92, Coast Guard Recognition of Registered Professional Engineer Certification of Compliance with Coast Guard Requirements
5-92 27Jul1992 Guidelines for Wire Rope Towing Hawsers
3-92 24Feb1992 Recommended Program for Protection of Merchant Mariners from Occupational Health Problems
2-92 04Feb1992 Survival Equipment for Lifeboats and Liferafts
8-91 21May1991 Initial and Subsequent Inspection of Existing, Uncertificated Offshore Supply Vessels, Including Liftboats
1980s
7-89 08Jan1990 Maneuvering Information
4-89 27Nov1989 Introduction to Human Factors Engineering
3-89 07Sep1989 Guidelines for the Presentation of Stability Information for Operating Personnel
2-89 14Aug1989 Guide for Electrical Installations on Merchant Vessels and Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
1-89 15Mar1989 Underwater Survey Guidance
6-87 21Sep1987 Recommended Procedures for Control of Asbestos and Other Respiratory Hazards on board Merchant Vessels, Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Facilities and Deepwater Ports
5-87 13Mar1987 Guidance on Implementation of Annex II of the MARPOL Protocol of 73/78 for Vessels Carrying Noxious Liquid Substances (NLS) in Bulk
11-86 05Sep1986 Guidelines Governing the Use of Fiberglass Pipe (FGP) on Coast Guard Inspected Vessels
10-86 05Aug1986 Guidelines Governing the Use of Fiberglass Pipe (FGP) on Coast Guard Inspected Vessels
7-86 30Apr1986 Information on the Adequacy and Currency of Nautical Charts
4-86 28Mar1986 Hydraulic Release Units for Liferafts, Life Floats and Buoyant Apparatus and Alternate Float-Free Arrangements
1-86 15Jan1986 Shipment and Discharge of Seamen
4-85 incl Ch-1 and 2 09Oct1986 Recalls and Other Corrective Measures for Lifesaving Equipment
11-84 20Dec1984 Guidelines for New Construction or Major Modification of U.S. Flag Vessels in Foreign Shipyards
8-84 23Aug1984 Recommendations for the Submittal of Merchant Vessel Plans and Specifications
6-84 25Jun1984 Automated Main and Auxiliary Machinery; Supplemental Guidance on
4-84 24Apr1984 Equivalent Determination for Existing, Installed Oil-Water Separators which Have Not Received U.S. Coast Guard Approval
2-84 06Apr1984 Amendments to the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Treaty
1-84 03Apr1984 Lack of Topstitching on Some Type I Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
10-83 29Sep1983 Stability Approval and the Issuance of Stability Letters 
(CANCELLED 15Jul2021, see 
86 FR 37238included here for historical reference purposes only)
9-83 14Sep1983 Coast Guard Guidance Regarding Requirement for Charts and Publications 
(CANCELLED 15Jul2021, see 
86 FR 37238included here for historical reference purposes only)
8-83 09Aug1983 Guidance for Compliance with Annex I of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL 73/78)
5-83 28Apr1983 Unified Interpretations of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966
1-83 10Feb1983 Painters for Life Floats and Buoyant Apparatus
13-82 24Jun1982 Cross Reference List between the IMO Chemical Code and 46 CFR Part 153
10-82, 
CH-2
18Sep1989 CH-2 to NVIC 10-82, Acceptance of Plan Review and Inspection Tasks Performed by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for New Construction or Major Modification of U.S. Flag Vessels
7-82 13Apr1982 Sample Format of Vessel or Facility Station Bill
14-81 02Dec1981 Stability Tests; Waiving of for "Sister Vessels"
10-81, 
CH-1
05Oct1981 Coast Guard Certification and Inspection of Certain Categories of Existing Vessels
9-81 10Aug1981 Coast Guard Guidance Regarding Shipboard Helicopter Facilities
8-81, CH-1 23Mar1988 Change 1 to NVIC 8-81, Initial and Subsequent Inspection of Uncertificated Existing Offshore Supply Vessels under P.L. 96-378
(CANCELLED 21May1991 by NVIC 8-91; included here for historical reference purposes only)
8-81 27Jul1981 Initial and Subsequent Inspection of Uncertificated Existing Offshore Supply Vessels under P.L. 96-378
(CANCELLED 21May1991 by NVIC 8-91; included here for historical reference purposes only)
6-81 18Jun1981 Lifeboat Weight Tests
5-81 26May1981 Literature Concerning Hazardous Cargoes
7-80 02Apr1980 Use of Fire Detection Systems which are Not approved under 46 CFR 161.002
2-80 07Feb1980 Poured-Metal Socket Connections for Lifeboat Falls
1-80 14Jan1980 Inspection of Viking On-Load Release Gear on Watercraft America
1970s
1-78 - Automation of Offshore Supply Vessels of 100 Gross Tons and Over
5-77 20Dec1977 Inspection of Hydraulic Starting Systems for Lifeboats and Survival Capsules
7-74 06Dec1974 Oil-Water Separators; Acceptance of
6-72, 
CH-1
22Aug1972 Guide to Fixed Fire-Fighting Equipment aboard Merchant Vessels
6-70 23Aug1970 Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems for Use in Galley Ventilating Equipment
1960s
1-69 08Jan1969 Automated Main and Auxiliary Machinery
8-68 15Nov1968 Classification of Vessels as Self-Propelled
(CANCELLED by CH-1 to Marine Safety Manual, Vol II on 07Jul2014; included here for historical reference purposes only; content can be found at
COMDTINST 16000.70, section A.6.F (page A6-6))
7-68 28Oct1968 Notes on Inspection and Repair of Steel Hulls
3-68 21Mar1968 Tensile Fasteners
3-67 17May1967 Alteration of Ship’s Structure which May Affect the Adequacy of Installed Safety Devices
1-66 25Jan1966 Requirements for Hull Structural Steel - Structural Continuity
2-63 24Jan1963 Guide for Inspection and Repair of Lifesaving Equipment
2-62 29Jan1962 Watertight Bulkheads in All Inspected Vessels, Maintenance of Watertight Integrity

 

MMS Work Instructions

Mission Management System (MMS) Work Instructions (WIs) that apply to support vessels (OSVs, to include Liftboats, and small passenger vessels supporting oil and gas operations) are listed in the table below, grouped by issuing authority and ordered numerically by instruction number. All CVC MMS WIs can be viewed and accessed through the CG-CVC MMS page on their site. Click on the policy number to open the document (opens in a new window).

Office WI Number Date Issued Subject
Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC)
CG-CVC CVC-WI-003(3) 03Nov2020 (Rev. 3) USCG Oversight of Safety Management Systems on U.S. Flag Vessels
CG-CVC CVC-WI-004(3) 13Nov2023 (Rev. 3) U.S. Flag Interpretations on the ISM Code
CG-CVC CVC-WI-011(1) 30Dec2019 Guidance on Overspeed Protection and Testing of Electronically-Controlled Engines
CG-CVC CVC-WI-015(2) 20Sep2019 (Rev. 2) Determinations for a Vessel's Keel Laid Date or Similar Stage of Construction 
CG-CVC CVC-WI-018(2) 04Oct2022 (Rev. 2) Laid up Inspected/Examined Vessels
CG-CVC CVC-WI-022(1) 13Jan2020 Implementation of Compliance/Enforcement Policy for MARPOL VI Reg. 14, including IMO 2020 Sulfur Cap
CG-CVC CVC-WI-027(3) 01Sep2023 (Rev. 3) Vessel Cyber Risk Management Work Instruction
CG-CVC CVC-WI-029(3) 14Jul2023 (Rev. 3) Drydock Exams, Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking and Drydock Extension Policy Clarifications
CG-CVC CVC-WI-032(1) 26Jun2023 U.S. Flagged Vessels Inspected Under Multiple Subchapters
 
       

 

Marine Safety Information Bulletins (MSIBs)

MSIBs that apply to support vessels (OSVs, to include Liftboats, and small passenger vessels supporting oil and gas operations) are listed in the table below, grouped by issuing authority and ordered from newest to oldest (by MSIB number/original issue date). Click on the MSIB number to open the document (opens in a new window).

Additional MSIBs issued by USCG Headquarters offices can be found here.

Office MSIB Number Date Issued Subject
Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC)
CG-CVC 03-24 25Mar2024 Amendment to MARPOL Annex V/10: Update to Garbage Record Book Requirements
Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG)
CG-ENG 07-22 14Nov2022 Changes to Survival Craft Equipment Requirements for U.S. Vessels
CG-ENG 06-22 18Oct2022 FM-200 Fire Extinguishing Agent Phasedown
CG-ENG 24-20 24Nov2020 Effect of the IMO OSV Chemical Code on the Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on U.S. Flagged Offshore Supply Vessels

 

Inspection Job Aids

The following Job Aids pertain to support vessels that work on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. Job Aids replaced the replaced the legacy CG-840 Books and can be a valuable tool for owners and operators to maintain regulatory compliance on their vessels.

Notes:

Job Aids are developed for use by the CG Marine Inspector, following internal CG procedures, and are provided as a convenience (and transparency) to industry. The Pre-Inspection/Pre-Exam and Follow-Up sections mainly pertain to administrative tasks of the Marine Inspector. While "if applicable" is NOT annotated within the Job Aid, there are inspection/exam items listed that may not apply to a particular vessel.

Additional Job Aids and Marine Inspector Performance Qualification Standards (PQS) are available on CVC's MI Resources page.