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Defintn.gif (1076 bytes)  Vessel Examination Program

The VESSEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM is one in which an Auxiliarist qualifies to become a Vessel Examiner for the purpose of performing Vessel Safety Checks (VSCs). The Vessel Examiner performs VSCs mainly on recreational boats 65 feet in length or less and on certain commercial vessels that are not inspected or certified by the Coast Guard The VSC is not a law enforcement action; no official report is made to any law enforcement authority. The VSC is performed only with the consent of the owner/operator, who is present at the time of the examination.

 

WHAT IS A VSC?

A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is an examination given by a qualified Auxiliarist who checks whether or not the vessel being examined meets all of the federal requirements for safety equipment, plus some extra items required by the VSC program. And, much more...

The VSC actively promotes boating safety by using trained Auxiliarists to educate the boater through a direct, face-to-face boating safety information exchange with the owner or operator. The VE provides instruction on equipment to be carried on board and other matters affecting safety; plus, federal and local equipment regulations and VSC requirements are explained as well. Information on boating safety classes and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is also provided.

If all of the requirements are met, a VSC decal is awarded and affixed to the boat.

A minimum of fourteen (14) hours (seven 2-hour sessions) of instruction is recommended before scheduling the final examination. The Manual contains eight chapters...

CHAPTER 1. The Vessel Safety Check Program

Discusses the purpose, scope, definition,
limitations, and procedures for qualification.

CHAPTER 2. Techniques of the VSC

Covers the attitude of the VE, educational
benefits of the program and how to conduct
a VSC

CHAPTER 3. The VSC Process

Addresses each of the requirements

CHAPTER 4. Auxiliary Facilities

Tells how to examine an Auxiliary facility
CHAPTER 5. Forms and Materials

Lists the forms and materials necessary plus
procedures for handling them

CHAPTER 6. Technical Reference Guide

Discusses the procedure for examining each
of the requirements and specific items of which to be aware

CHAPTER 7. State Boating Safety Programs

Describes the Vessel Examiner's responsibility

CHAPTER 8. Personal Watercraft Safety Check

Addresses program participation, approaches,
exemptions, requirements, state regulations,
discussion items, reporting, and hand-out
materials.
 

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