Issue Date: November 20, 2019
PURPOSE. This Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) provides guidance to assist owners and operators of vessels that are subject to the requirements in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) on complying with the amendments to SOLAS Chapter III Regulations 3 and 20, through the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) Resolution MSC.404(96). These amendments will enter into force on January 1, 2020. Additionally, this NVIC provides guidance with respect to IMO Resolution MSC.402(96) Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear.
ACTION. a. The Coast Guard will use this guidance to provide information on how vessel owners and operators may comply with the amendments to SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 3 and 20 and the IMO Resolution MSC.402(96). b. Vessel owners and operators, lifesaving equipment manufacturers, servicing and repair facilities and personnel may use this guidance to ensure that the servicing and maintenance of lifeboats, rescue boats, release gear, and launching systems for their vessels are carried out in accordance with SOLAS Chapter III Regulations 3 and 20, and the IMO Resolution MSC.402(96).