scope:

PURPOSE. The purpose of this Instruction is to promulgate uniform Coast Guard policies regarding training and qualification of personnel providing voluntary dockside examination services and conducting at-sea boardings of commercial fishing industry vessels. The goal of the fishing vessel safety program is to achieve a significant reduction in commercial fishing industry fatalities and vessel losses through public awareness, voluntary dockside examinations and at-sea boardings. Well trained commercial fishing vessel dockside examiners and boarding officers will foster public awareness of fishing vessel safety and promote regulations compliance.