Federal regulations · Through 2026-08-25 · Newer source version available

46 CFR 28.375: Emergency source of electrical power.

(a) Each vessel must have an emergency source of electrical power which is independent of the main sources of electrical power and which is located outside the main machinery space.
(b) The emergency source of electrical power must be capable of supplying all connected loads continuously for at least 3 hours.
(c) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, the following electrical loads must be connected to the emergency source of power:
(1) Navigation lights;
(2) Steering systems;
(3) Bilge pumps;
(4) Fire protection and detection systems, including fire pumps;
(5) Communication equipment;
(6) General alarm system and;
(7) Emergency lighting.
(d) A vessel less than 36 feet (11.0 meters) in length need only supply communication equipment by an emergency source of electrical power if flashlights are provided.
(e) A vessel less than 79 feet (24 meters) in length which is not dependent upon electrical power for propulsion, including propulsion control systems or steering, need only supply emergency lighting, navigation equipment, general alarm system, and communication systems by the emergency source of power.
(f) Where the emergency source of power is a generator, the generator prime mover must have a fuel supply which is independent of other prime movers.

Where this section sits in the code

Title 46—Shipping
CHAPTER I—COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
SUBCHAPTER C—UNINSPECTED VESSELS
PART 28—REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY VESSELS
Subpart D—Requirements for Vessels Which Have Their Keel Laid or Are at a Similar Stage of Construction on or After or Which Undergo a Major Conversion Completed on or After September 15, 1991, and That Operate With More Than 16 Individuals on Board

(a) Each vessel must have an emergency source of electrical power which is independent of the main sources of electrical power and which is located outside the main machinery space.

(b) The emergency source of electrical power must be capable of supplying all connected loads continuously for at least 3 hours.

(c) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, the following electrical loads must be connected to the emergency source of power:

(1) Navigation lights;

(2) Steering systems;

(3) Bilge pumps;

(4) Fire protection and detection systems, including fire pumps;

(5) Communication equipment;

(6) General alarm system and;

(7) Emergency lighting.

(d) A vessel less than 36 feet (11.0 meters) in length need only supply communication equipment by an emergency source of electrical power if flashlights are provided.

(e) A vessel less than 79 feet (24 meters) in length which is not dependent upon electrical power for propulsion, including propulsion control systems or steering, need only supply emergency lighting, navigation equipment, general alarm system, and communication systems by the emergency source of power.

(f) Where the emergency source of power is a generator, the generator prime mover must have a fuel supply which is independent of other prime movers.

Collected 2026-08-27T02:26:22Z. Source file · JSON

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