---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 143.240"
title: "46"
number: "143.240"
heading: "Communication requirements."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/143.240"
---

# §143.240. Communication requirements.

- (a) This section does not apply to an excepted towing vessel as defined in [§ 136.110](/cfr/46/136.110.md) of this subchapter.
- (b) Each towing vessel must be fitted with a communication system between the pilothouse and the engine room that:
  - (1) Consists of either fixed or portable equipment, such as a sound-powered telephone, portable radios, or other reliable method of voice communication, with a main or reserve power supply that is independent of the towing vessel's electrical system; and
  - (2) Provides two-way voice communication and calling between the pilothouse and either the engine room or a location immediately adjacent to an exit from the engine room.
- (c) Towing vessels with more than one propulsion unit and independent pilothouse control for all engines are not required to have internal communication systems.
- (d) When the pilothouse engine controls and the access to the engine room are within 3 meters (10 feet) of each other and allow unobstructed visible contact between them, direct voice communication is acceptable instead of a communication system.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3103, 3301, 3306, 3308, 3316, 8104, 8904; 33 CFR 1.05; DHS Delegation No. 0170.1.

### Source

Source: USCG-2006-24412, 81 FR 40101, June 20, 2016, unless otherwise noted.