QUESTION: I have a regulatory interpretation question regarding generators.
A generator fails on a vessel equipped with 3 generators while the other two generators are fully operable. Only one generator is needed to carry the load for the vessel. Are we required to report this to the Coast Guard and TVIB?
RESPONSE: Short answer is yes, based on the following:
Guidance concerning reportable marine casualties was taken from NVIC 01-15 title 46, code of federal regulations (CFR), part 4 marine casualty reporting procedures guide with associated standard interpretations 46 CFR 4.05-1.
The loss of an online generator IS considered a reportable marine casualty no matter the duration. However, if you have the required 2 operational power supplies, you continue to meet the requirements under Subchapter M.
The benefit of this setup is that the vessel still has the required power supplies so you can schedule repairs to the affected generator later and continue operations without lost time.
Once reported, this may be handled differently from one Coast Guard unit to another since it does not affect operations. These would be the 2 most likely and agreed-upon options but they do not preclude an alternate path not discussed in this FAQ under the direction of the OCMI.
- CG-835V not issued, Notify TPO IAW companies TSMS for repairs. Continue operations
- CG-835V issued, Action Code A, Self-reported Worklist item, not fwd. facing. Notify TPO IAW Companies TSMS. Continue operations.