Fish like there is a tomorrow - fish safe.
A web site for the Commercial Fishing Vessel Industry
Depending upon several factors, some Commercial Fishing Industry Vessels are required to maintain a valid CFVS Decal (every 2 years). Or a valid Certificate of Compliance (COC) (every 2 years). While others are required to complete a CFVS exam every 5 years. Or may choose to complete a CFVS exam or maintain a valid CFVS Decal voluntarily. The following graphic should better explain:
1. Use any desktop, laptop, tablet or smart phone device - to determine the equipment your vessel is required to have. Launch the Checklist Generator answer the questions and create a list of the safety equipment your vessel is required to have. Print out a checklist to use on your vessel or take the list on your device to your vessel.
2. Use the checklists to examine your vessel. Ensure you have all of the required equipment and that everything is in serviceable condition. Using the checklist generator will greatly increase the odds of passing the exam on the first visit.
You can view additional information on what to look at for each item by selecting the "info" button to the right of each item on the checklist. It is here that you can also view any additional information such as regulations related to the item as well as other information and guidance.
3. Call to schedule a dockside exam. Call your nearest Coast Guard Dockside Examiner or USCG Accepted Third Party Examination Organization to schedule a visit to your vessel to conduct the exam. If your vessel has all of the required servicable equipment you will be issued a decal and written documentation that your vessel has passed the exam. The exam decal is issued for two years.
4. Keep equipment in serviceable condition during the period of your dockside exam decal. Items such as inflatable life rafts, life raft hydrostatic release units, EPIRB batteries and NOAA registration, certain first aid kit items, etc expire. Make sure that you examine all of the vessels safety items to ensure they stay in serviceable condition and that those items with expiration dates do not expired.
If you find any problems with the Checklist Generator please send me an e-mail at Michael.G.Rudolph@uscg.mil.