Waterways - Preparation of the Vessel

Supervision

Each hold or compartment in which hazardous materials are to be stowed must be free of all debris before stowing HAZMAT. Whenever smoking is prohibited according to regulations in Part 176, the carrier and the master of the vessel are both responsible for posting "NO SMOKING" signs in noticeable locations.

Stowage Locations

The table in §172.101 specifies general locations authorized for stowage of the various hazardous materials on board vessels, with exceptions to limited quantities. §176.63 prescribes more extensive requirements with respect to the stowage of specific hazardous materials in addition to those authorized in §172.101. §176.63 qualifies basic physical requirements for authorized locations as the following:

• "On Deck" stowage
• "Under Deck" stowage
• "Under Deck Away From Heat" stowage

Alternate Stowage Procedures

When evidence is shown to the Captain of the Port (COTP) that it is impracticable to load a HAZMAT material with a stowage requirement specified in §172.101, the COTP may authorize in writing the use of an alternate stowage location or method of segregation that provides an equal amount of safety as the regulatory requirement concerned.

To learn more about Waterways HAZMAT visit our DOT Waterways HAZMAT Online Training web page.