97 STAT. 514 PUBLIC LAW 98-89 —AUG. 26, 1983 (4) inspections and tests related to clauses (l)-(3) of this subsection; and (5) the use of vessel stores and other supplies of a dangerous nature. (b) Equipment subject to regulation under this section may not be used on any vessel without prior approval as prescribed by regulation. (c) In prescribing regulations for sailing school vessels, the Secre- tary shall consult with representatives of the private sector having experience in the operation of vessels likely to be certificated as sailing school vessels. The regulations shall— (1) reflect the specialized nature of sailing school vessel opter- ations, and the character, design, and construction of vessels operating as sailing school vessels; and (2) include requirements for notice to sailing school instruc- tors and sailing school students about the specialized nature of sailing school vessels and applicable safety regulations. (d) In prescribing regulations for nautical school vessels operated by the United States Merchant Marine Academy or by a State maritime academy (as defined in section 1302(3) of the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 (46 App. U.S.C. 1295a(3))), the Secretary shall consider the function, purpose, and operation of the vessels, their routes, and the number of individuals who may be carried on the vessels. Suspensions or (e) When the Secretary finds it in the public interest, the Secre- exemptions. ^jy jjj^^y suspend or grant exemptions from the requirements of a regulation prescribed under this section related to lifesaving and firefighting equipment, muster lists, ground tackle and hawsers, and bilge systems. (f) In prescribing regulations for offshore supply vessels, the Secre- tary shall consider the characteristics, methods of operation, and the nature of the service of offshore supply vessels. § 3307. Frequency of inspection Each vessel subject to inspection under this part shall undergo an initial inspection for certification before being put into service. After being put into service— (1) each passenger vessel and nautical school vessel shall be inspected at least once a year; (2) each small passenger vessel, freight vessel or offshore supply vessel of less than 100 gross tons, and sailing school vessel shall be inspected at least once every 3 years; and (3) any other vessel shall be inspected at least once every 2 years. §3308. Examinations In addition to inspections required by section 3307 of this title, the Secretary shall examine— (1) each vessel subject to inspection at proper times to ensure compliance with law and regulations; and (2) crewmember accommodations on each vessel subject to inspection at least once a month or when the vessel enters United States ports to ensure that the accommodations are— (A) of the size required by law and regulations; (B) properly ventilated and in a clean and sanitary condi- tion; and
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