scope:

PURPOSE. This Instruction establishes policy guidance for applying the authority of The Ports and Waterways Safety Act (PWSA) (33 USC 1223) to deficiencies discovered under the Convention Concerning Minimum Standards in Merchant Ships, referred to as the Merchant Shipping (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1976 (ILO Convention No. 147). This Instruction specifies the Coast Guard's responsibilities, and identifies other Federal agencies which have concurrent or oversight responsibilities under this Convention. This instruction does not limit any authority the U.S. may have over foreign ships operating in waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction.