U.S. Code
»
Title 46
» Subtitle Subtitle II— Vessels and Seamen › Part Part C— Load Lines of Vessels › Chapter CHAPTER 51— LOAD LINES
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.(Pub. L. 99–509, title V, § 5101(2), Oct. 21, 1986, 100 Stat. 1916.)Historical and Revision NotesRevised section 5105
Section 5105 authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide for load line surveys and requires that while conducting a load line survey, the Secretary must consider various strength, stability, design, and construction features of the vessel.