Boatnerd Discussion Forum

Here is the place to start, but it would take months to figure out these regulations completely.

https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/LSA/

Two things: First, the actual regulations are summarized in the Code of Federal Regulations. And unbelievably, the Coast Guard didn't bother to link to them from their summary pages. So you need to copy the regulation number (eg 46 CFR 160.035) then search for it in google, or on any law site that has the CFR's. And note that some regulations are obsolete, or only apply to certain waters or grandfathered installations.

Second, The Coast Guard maintains a list of approved equipment, everything from open lifeboats to hatchets. Those are here: https://cgmix.uscg.mil/Equipment/EquipmentSearch.aspx

Over the years I have seen many different types of life boats on Great Lake freighters. Is there a U.S.C.G regulation regarding life boat size, flotation used, number of boats per ship based on crew size, storage aboard ship, location aboard ship ect. ? Today I see every type of life boat used - from open style canvas covered raft - to free fall enclosed motorized boats. With something as important as life boats - one would think the C G must have strict rules and regulations. I have spent many many hours searching for such regulations - no luck and no regulations.
I find the same lack of regulations with life vests. No standards as to flotation, color, location aboard ship ect. You just need one per person. Many makers of life jackets use what ever color they want, flotation can be anything that floats, and the fasteners and ties can be almost anything. Thanks in advance for your help.