Title 46, ShippingRelease 119-102
§3509 Medical Standards
Title 46 › Subtitle II — Vessels and Seamen › Part B — Inspection and Regulation of Vessels › CHAPTER 35 — CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS › § 3509
Summary
Ship owners covered by the rule must make sure a doctor is always on board and ready to treat any passenger in an emergency. They must also make the ship follow the Health Care Guidelines for Cruise Ship Medical Facilities set by the American College of Emergency Physicians. The first safety talk for passengers must tell where the ship’s medical facilities are and what steps to take in a medical emergency.
Full Legal Text
Title 46, §3509
Shipping, Source: USLM XML via OLRC
The owner of a vessel to which section 3507 applies shall ensure that—
(1)a physician is always present and available to treat any passengers who may be on board the vessel in the event of an emergency situation;
(2)the vessel is in compliance with the Health Care Guidelines for Cruise Ship Medical Facilities established by the American College of Emergency Physicians; and
(3)the initial safety briefing given to the passengers on board the vessel includes—
(A)the location of the vessel’s medical facilities; and
(B)the appropriate steps passengers should follow during a medical emergency.
Legislative History
Notes & Related Subsidiaries
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Exemptions for Certain Passenger VesselsFor provisions exempting certain passenger vessels from the requirements authorized under this section, see section 11510 of Pub. L. 117–263, set out as a note under section 3508 of this title.
Reference
Citations & Metadata
Citation
46 U.S.C. § 3509
Title 46, Shipping
Last Updated
Aug 21, 2026
Release point: 119-102