(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section and §28.305, each vessel must be equipped with a throwable flotation device or a ring life buoy as specified in table 28.115. If the vessel is equipped with a ring life buoy, at least one ring life buoy must be equipped with a line which is at least:
(1) 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length for a vessel less than 65 feet (19.8 meters) in length; or
(2) 90 feet (27.4 meters) in length for a vessel 65 feet (19.8 meters) or more in length.
(b) For each vessel less than 65 feet (19.8 meters) in length, an approved 20 inch (0.51 meters) or larger ring life buoy which is in serviceable condition and which was installed on board before September 15, 1991, may be used to meet the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.
Table 28.115—Throwable Flotation Devices
| Vessel length | Devices required |
|---|---|
| Less than 16 feet (4.9 meters) | None. |
| 16 feet (4.9 meters) or more, but less than 26 feet (7.9 meters) | 1 buoyant cushion, or ring life buoy (Type IV PFD). |
| 26 feet (7.9 meters) or more, but less than 65 feet (19.8 meters) | 1 ring life buoy approval number starting with 160.009 or 160.050; orange; at least 24 inch (0.61 meters) size. |
| 65 feet (19.8 meters) or more | 3 ring life buoys, approval number 160.050; orange; at least 24 inch (0.61 meters) size. |
Note: Certain Type V PFDs are approved for use in substitution for Type IV PFDs, when used in accordance with the conditions stated in the Coast Guard approval label.
[CGD 88-079, 56 FR 40393, Aug. 14, 1991; 56 FR 47679, Sept. 20, 1991; 56 FR 49822, Oct. 1, 1991; CGD 95-012, 60 FR 48048, Sept. 18, 1995]
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