MLV sound dampering products on US inspected vessels
The Coast Guard has recently discovered that certain MLV sound dampening products, such as “VinaflexTM”,have been installed on some U.S. inspected vessels without the required type approvals.
When sailing on international voyages, U.S. inspected vessels must have approved bulkhead, deck and overheadmaterials that meet the fire protection requirements found in SOLAS and, by extension, the fire testingrequirements outlined in the International Code for Application of Fire Test Procedures (FTP Code). Ondomestic voyages, U.S inspected vessels are required to have approved materials in accordance with theappropriate regulations in Title 46 CFR, applicable Coast Guard policy, and all corresponding testingrequirements found in 46 CFR Subchapter Q.
Effective immediately, designers, shipyards, classification societies, owners and operators associated with theconstruction of U.S. inspected vessels shall discontinue the use of MLV sound dampening products, unless thematerials have been approved for the specific location in which they are being installed.This includes a MLVproduct being used in isolation or as a part of any structural fire protection boundary.
If a shipyard, owner or operator identifies a MLV sound dampening product which is already installed on avessel under construction, or a vessel already in service, in a manner that is not in compliance with theapplicable fire protection requirements, they shall notify the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection(OCMI). OCMIs will work closely with the Marine Safety Center to discuss the specifics of these cases anddetermine an appropriate course of action. |
The Coast Guard does not intend to impose operational controls on avessel during this evaluation.The Coast Guard stands ready to assist vessel owners and operators in determining whether MLV sounddampening products or other related materials comply with the appropriate fire protection requirements.
Source: USCG / MSIB 16-14