§4901 Surveillance requirements

Summary

Vessels in commercial service that do not carry passengers must have video and audio surveillance. The rule applies to three groups: documented vessels with sleeping rooms for at least 10 people that either take voyages of at least 600 miles crossing seaward of the Boundary Line or are 24 meters (79 feet) or longer and need a load line; documented vessels of at least 500 gross tons on an international voyage; and vessels with sleeping rooms for at least 10 people that operate at least 72 hours over the outer Continental Shelf. Owners must install the cameras and microphones no later than 2 years after the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 took effect, or during the next drydock, whichever comes later. Equipment must cover hallways with stateroom doors so every door is visible. Crew must be told about the surveillance with clear signs. Recordings must be kept at least 1 year, and any footage tied to an alleged incident must be kept at least 5 years. Owners and employers must train staff on how to respond to sexual assault or harassment, how to preserve audio/visual evidence properly, act without company influence, and follow applicable federal, state, Tribal, and local laws. “Owner” means the owner, charterer, managing operator, master, or other person in charge. Fishing vessels, fish processing vessels, and fish tender vessels are exempt.