The Importance of Proper Replacement Parts

This month, the USCG issued a reminder to all mariners and vessel owner operators to always use the proper replacement parts for all Emergency Equipment.

Why stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations?

While conducting a yearly inspection recently, a USCG inspector found that a ring buoy’s water light was heavier than it should be due to the battery having been replaced with a battery that was heavier than the manufacturer’s recommended battery. Even though the light’s labeled instructions called for the correctly weighted battery, the person who replaced it the last time had chosen the incorrect type. The danger in this is that water lights, by design, must be able to float upright for maximum visibility. A six-volt lantern battery will provide the optimum ballast for these lights; however, though most off-the-shelf batteries will be the exact same size, they may have different weights. It is essential that only the manufacturer’s recommended batteries be used. Otherwise, the water light could float on its side or even sink.

The USCG reminds those performing inspections on Emergency Equipment to be aware of the dangers of not following specific manufacturer recommendations when it comes to replacing components of safety equipment, and to also be mindful of counterfeit safety products like Hand Portable Fire Extinguishers and Emergency Escape Breathing Devices.

Identifying “high risk” parts and systems

The USCG also reminds mariners that sometimes it is the smallest part or component of a vessel’s mechanical systems that can lead to catastrophic failure of your vessel, if not properly maintained. The USCG recognizes that identifying each and every failure mode that has the potential to impact your vessel’s steering system, power generation system, propulsion, etc., and developing a complex preventative maintenance routine for each of those systems and components is an enormous task. However, the Coast Guard suggests that all owner/operators and marine engineers consider and identify the most “high risk” components that, if failure occurred, could result in casualties. Once identified, personnel should refer to manuals for those components and track the proper maintenance requirements so they can take steps to avoid future problems and reduce risk.

Don’t leave proper maintenance to chance

Keeping accurate records of routine and periodic maintenance for your vessel and all emergency equipment is one way to ensure that your equipment is always in working condition, and that you are purchasing the correct replacement parts. With a proper log book, you can easily and quickly record not only dates of scheduled maintenance, but also the type and manufacturer of any components needed. With this information at your fingertips, you won’t be leaving necessary maintenance to chance.

Request your free logbook quick reference guide today! This guide covers:

• Which logbooks belong on which vessels
• Regulations surrounding those logbooks
• Possible fines and/or repercussions for not having the correct information
• What entries are required for the logbooks
• And so much more…