BROWN

Any piping system that penetrates the hull below the waterline must be fitted with an accessible valve, located as close to the hull penetration as is practicable, for preventing the accidental admission of water into the vessel either through such pipes or in the event of a fracture of such pipe. The valve must be clearly marked by labeling or color coding that enables the crew to identify its function. Integral keel cooler was not outfitted with a valve. Install valve. 46CFR143.250(d)

Emergency lighting must be provided for all internal crew working and living areas. Emergency lighting sources must provide for sufficient illumination under emergency conditions to facilitate egress from each space and must be either: (1) Automatic, battery-operated with a duration of no less than 2 hours; or (2) Non-electric, phosphorescent adhesive lighting strips that are installed along escape routes and sufficiently visible to enable egress with no power. Crew living areas were not equipped with emergency lighting. Equip all internal living and working spaces with emergency lighting or phosphorescent adhesive lighting strips. 46CFR143.410(b)

Machinery and electrical systems must be designed and maintained to provide for safe operation of the towing vessel and safety of persons onboard under normal and and emergency conditions. Vessel suffered casualty resulting in the loss of steering due to steering pin coming out of place. Mechanic attended vessel and replaced damaged bushing. Deficiency has been rectified.