The owner or managing operator of a towing vessel choosing to use the TSMS option must implement an external or internal survey program for vessel compliance. The program for vessel compliance can be either:

(a) An external survey program, in which the owner or managing operator would have a third-party organization (TPO) conduct either the surveys required by §137.205, the examinations required by §137.310, or both; or

(b) An internal survey program, in which the owner or managing operator would conduct either the surveys required by §137.210, the examinations required by §137.315, or both, using internal resources or contracted surveyors. The internal survey program would be conducted with the oversight of a TPO.

(c) Each program of either type must include:

(1) Owner or managing operator policy regarding the surveying and examination of towing vessels;

(2) Procedures for conducting towing vessel surveys and examinations, as described in this part;

(3) Procedures for reporting and correcting non-conformities and deficiencies;

(4) Identification of the individual or individuals responsible for the management of the program, and their qualifications; and

(5) Documentation of compliance activities.