---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 116.1160"
title: "46"
number: "116.1160"
heading: "Watertight integrity."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/116.1160"
---

# §116.1160. Watertight integrity.

- (a) A hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight, except that the following hatches may be weathertight:
  - (1) A hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 305 millimeters (12 inches) above the weather deck;
  - (2) A hatch in a cabin top; and
  - (3) **A hatch on a vessel that operates only on protected waters.**
- (b) **A hatch cover must—**
  - (1) Have securing devices; and
  - (2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive chains, or other devices of substantial strength to prevent its loss.
- (c) A hatch cover that provides access to accommodation spaces must be operable from either side.
- (d) A weathertight door must be provided for each opening located in a deck house or companionway. Permanent watertight coamings must be provided as follows:
  - (1) On a vessel on an exposed or partially protected route, a watertight coaming with a height of at least 150 millimeters (6 inches) must be provided under each weathertight door in a cockpit or a well, or on the main deck of a flush deck vessel.
  - (2) On a vessel on a protected route, a watertight coaming with a height of at least 75 millimeters (3 inches) must be provided under each weathertight door in a cockpit or a well.
  - (3) The height of the watertight coaming for a hinged watertight door, need only be sufficient to accommodate the door.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277, DHS Delegation 00170.1, Revision No. 01.4.

### Source

Source: CGD 85-080, 61 FR 900, Jan. 10, 1996, unless otherwise noted.