USCG Announces New Engine Cut Off Switch Law

colbysmith

https://quimbyscruisingguide.com/coast-guard-announces-new-engine-cut-off-switch-law/?mc_cid=c0ff1e6b9f&mc_eid=14c53a5149

LesR · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2021 9:12 pm Post subject:

I didn't see it in the Quimby's article, but the USCG site linked from that article indicates:

Q11. Are there exemptions to the Engine Cut-Off Switch law?
A11. The laws are only applicable to recreational vessels, so they do not apply to law enforcement vessels or other government-owned vessels. There are two exemptions for recreational vessels. The first is there is no requirement to wear the Engine Cut-Off Switch Link if either the main helm of the covered vessel is installed within an enclosed cabin, or if the vessel does not have an engine cut-off switch and is not required to have one.

Les

smckean (Tosca) · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2021 9:24 pm Post subject:

I read the following in the article:

"Using the ECOSL is not required when the main helm is installed within an enclosed cabin."

starcrafttom · Posted: Fri Mar 19, 2021 12:15 pm Post subject:

Its also not required if you are trolling. It does not say trolling but it does say under a certain speed. And its only for boats under 26ft.. yap the 27 ft cdory wins again

ssobol · Posted: Fri Mar 19, 2021 12:32 pm Post subject:

starcrafttom · Posted: Fri Mar 19, 2021 2:21 pm Post subject:

if your not on plane you should be fishing.... why else would you slow down LOL

localboy · Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2021 1:04 pm Post subject:

For those that enjoy reading gov't verbiage:

https://coastguardnews.com/coast-guard-announces-new-law-requiring-use-of-engine-cut-off-switches/2021/03/10/

Our dinghy never gets on a plane, so it's exempt too. Laughing

srbaum · Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2021 6:14 pm Post subject:

Just a piece of trivia...
I have a 26, as stated on my title and my registration. The factory spec says the boat is 25'9". This messes with the regs a little bit depending on how you read rules. The rule on the cut-off switch says less than 26' (though we already know that we are exempt, because we have a closed cabin to operate the boat from). The law also requires two of the smaller B1 or one B2 fire extinguishers, for 26 and above. Also an oil pollution placard and a garbage placard are required for 26 and above. This gives the 26 (Cape Cruise/Venture owners an opportunity to mess with the law enforcement boarding officers a bit.
This came to mind last year when I was boarded by the USCG, as I know how long the boat is, so it is easy to dispute, by showing them the manufactures data and also have them validate the length with a tape measure.
Did you know that the maritime industry messes with this very law of less than 26 feet on a daily basis? Take a look at the small (high horsepower tugs used for most maritime construction jobs. Even though these little guys can push a regular size, loaded barge, they do not require the operator to have a Captain's license, allowing the company to operate the tug, without paying the operator tug captain pay, or meeting other requirements of a larger tug.
Full disclosure, I was a USCG Boarding Officer and was once in group of the CG that taught citizens, State marine police, Federal marine police and USCG members the boating safety regulations.

srbaum · Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2021 6:15 pm Post subject:

Just a piece of trivia...
I have a 26, as stated on my title and my registration. The factory spec says the boat is 25'9". This messes with the regs a little bit depending on how you read rules. The rule on the cut-off switch says less than 26' (though we already know that we are exempt, because we have a closed cabin to operate the boat from). The law also requires two of the smaller B1 or one B2 fire extinguishers, for 26 and above. Also an oil pollution placard and a garbage placard are required for 26 and above. This gives the 26 (Cape Cruise/Venture owners an opportunity to mess with the law enforcement boarding officers a bit.
This came to mind last year when I was boarded by the USCG, as I know how long the boat is, so it is easy to dispute, by showing them the manufactures data and also have them validate the length with a tape measure.
Did you know that the maritime industry messes with this very law of less than 26 feet on a daily basis? Take a look at the small (high horsepower tugs used for most maritime construction jobs. Even though these little guys can push a regular size, loaded barge, they do not require the operator to have a Captain's license, allowing the company to operate the tug, without paying the operator tug captain pay, or meeting other requirements of a larger tug.
Full disclosure, I was a USCG Boarding Officer and was once in group of the CG that taught citizens, State marine police, Federal marine police and USCG members the boating safety regulations.

hardee · Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2021 9:47 pm Post subject:

I have never figured out why some folks want to avoid complying with requirements that are there for their own safety -- ie, seatbelts in cars, helmets on motorcycles and pfds on boats. OH well, some just like to be contrary, or get by, or what ever. Maybe they have never been upclose and personal with what happens when things come unglued, go south or hit the fan, (depending on your preference).

This might be a good place to plug one of my favorite safety devices on board, the MOB+ by Fell Marine.

https://buy.fellmarine.com/collections/mob-wireless-man-overboard-system

Yes it is a pain to install, and it does take a few seconds to put the device on when You get on the boat, but it works and could be a lifesaver if you ever have an unplanned "unboarding" party.

Harvey
SleepyC Moon

starcrafttom · Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2021 1:17 pm Post subject:

TyBoo · Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2021 1:34 pm Post subject:

Not so fast, you rebel!

You have to actually be inside the cabin for the enclosed helm to apply. If you are on step while at your aft controls then the lanyard would be required.

starcrafttom · Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2021 2:26 pm Post subject:

would it? I mean that makes since but I dont think thats how it reads. I am only out back when trolling so it doe snot apply if not on step. Really just a silly set of rules that are not going to be enforced anyhow. But I can bet that the Everett " marine unit" also know as the " revenue providing unit" will be out in force at the dock and in the channel harassing's people this spring. I love cops but I hate when they are used by others to soley provide money when there are other concerns on going.

ssobol · Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2021 2:52 pm Post subject:

starcrafttom · Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2021 3:45 pm Post subject:

not going to rehash this here but your just plan wrong. Me not wearing a helmet seat belt etc is my business not the governments. I do think its a good idea. If we followed your lack of logic we would not be allowed out of our homes. people die with seat belt on every day. Why are they allowed to drive? why are they allowed to travel? because we still live in a free country. Your real problem is with law suits then I would suggest that you turn your attention to Legal reform and tort reform. Why is some one not wearing a seat belt, helmet ,. ordering hot coffee, climbing over the fence at the zoo even allowed to sue???

Most countries do not allow them too. I grew up long before any seat belt, helmet, riding in back of trucks, or other baby sitting laws were passed and guess what? we did just fine. How about you worry about you and I will worry about me. I do not effect your life not having a safety lanyard. And If in the event I do I should pay for all cost and damages to YOU. Not be fined for a non event that effected no one. have a nice day.