46 U.S.C. § 5105: Load line surveys

(a) The Secretary may provide for annual, renewal, and other load line surveys. (b) In conducting a load line survey, the Secretary shall consider whether—(1) the hull and fittings of the vessel—(A) are adequate to protect the vessel from the sea; and (B) meet other requirements the Secretary may prescribe by regulation; (2) the strength of the hull is adequate for all loading conditions; (3) the stability of the vessel is adequate for all loading conditions; (4) the topsides of the vessel are arranged and constructed to allow rapid overboard drainage of deck water in heavy weather; and (5) the topsides of the vessel are adequate in design, arrangement, and equipment to protect crewmembers performing outside tasks necessary for safe operation of the vessel.