SAN BLAS

Electrical systems and equipment must function properly and minimize system failures and fire and shock hazards. MI observed both port and starboard generators windings excessively coated in an oily residue. Owner/operator to provide documentation of generator cleaned and source of accumulation identified and repaired if necessary to the satisfaction of attending MI. 46CFR143.400(a) 60c.

To stop the flow of fuel in the event of a fire or break in the fuel line, a remote fuel shutoff valve must be fitted on any fuel line that supplies fuel directly to a propulsion engine or generator prime mover. MI observed both fuel shutoff valves not operating as required when operated by vessel crew. Owner/operator is required to utilize valves with the ability to close via remote shutoff and provide documentation of completed action to the satisfaction of attending MI. 46CFR143.260(b) 60c.

Repairs and minor alterations to existing towing vessels must be made in accordance with this part. New installations that are not replacements in kind must comply with the requirements of subpart C of this part, if applicable. MI observed a temporary power cord ran from an outlet in the steering gear space through the bulkhead in the fiddley space, across the overhead and continuing down the stbd bulkhead of the fiddley space servicing a chest freezer. Owner/operator is required to remove unauthorized alteration of non permanent wiring to the satisfaction of the attending MI. 46CFR143.205(d) 16c.

Individual circuit breakers on switchboards and distribution panels must be labeled with a description of the loads they serve. MI observed multiple distribution panels with unlabeled breakers. Owner/operator is required to label all breakers as per cite to the satisfaction of the attending MI. 46CFR143.300(d) 16c

Each towing vessel must be maintained and operated so as to minimize fire hazards and to ensure the following: (a) All bilges and void spaces are kept free from accumulation of combustible and flammable materials and liquids insofar as practicable. (b) Storage areas are kept free from accumulation of combustible and flammable materials insofar as practicable. MI observed fifteen pails of lubricating oil stored in the aft port side of the engine room in addition to the engine room bilge containing a significant amount of imulsified oil and water. Owner/operator is required to store flammable or combustible products in accordance with 46CFR142.255. The engine room bilge must be cleaned to the satisfaction of the attending MI and maintained in such condition. 46CFR142.220(a)(b) 16c.

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. MI observed the cited requirement isn't met in the crew berthing spaces. Owner/operator to comply with above cited reference. 46CFR143.410(b) 16c.

Electrical conductors passing though watertight bulkheads must be installed so that the bulkhead remains watertight. MI observed forward storage compartment wiring passing through the aft bulkhead with no watertight provisions. Owner/operator to seal bulkhead penetration to the satisfaction of the attending MI. 46CFR143.400 16c.

Closure devices must be provided for deckhouse or hull penetrations, which open to the exterior of the vessel and which may allow water to enter the vessel. These devices must be suitable for the expected route. MI observed the forward deckhouse storage room stbd water tight door degraded at the lower portion not allowing for intended down flooding protection. Owner/operator to replace door with approved type and condition to the satisfaction of attending MI. 46CFR144.320(b) 50c.