46 CFR §141.340
Verified against eCFR.gov as of June 20, 2026View official text on eCFR.gov ↗
- (a)Each towing vessel must carry at least one appropriately-sized lifejacket, approved under approval series 160.002, 160.005, 160.055, 160.155, 160.176, or 160.255 for each person on board.
- (b)For towing vessels with berthing aboard, a sufficient number of additional lifejackets must be carried so that a lifejacket is immediately available for persons at each normally manned watch station.
- (c)Where alternative means are used to meet the requirements of this section, as permitted by § 141.225, there must be at least one lifejacket for each person onboard. Any TSMS applicable to the towing vessel must specify the number and location of lifejackets in such a manner as to facilitate immediate accessibility at normally occupied spaces including, but not limited to, accommodation spaces and watch stations.
- (d)Lifejackets must be readily accessible.
- (e)If the towing vessel carries inflatable lifejackets they must be of similar design to each other and have the same mode of operation.
- (f)Each lifejacket must be marked:
- (g)Lifejackets must have the following attachments and fittings:
- (h)Stowage positions for lifejackets stowed in a berthing space or stateroom and all lifejacket containers must be marked in block capital letters and numbers with the minimum quantity, identity, and, if sizes other than adult or universal sizes are used on the vessel, the size of the lifejackets stowed inside the container. The equipment may be identified in words or with the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 136.112 of this subchapter).
- (i)Wearable PFDs approved in accordance with §§ 160.064, 160.076, 160.264, or 160.276 in subchapter Q of this chapter, or other standard specified by the Commandant, may be carried as additional equipment. Additional equipment is not acceptable in lieu of any portion of the required lifejackets.