---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 171.124"
title: "46"
number: "171.124"
heading: "Watertight integrity above the margin line in a vessel less than 100 gross tons."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/171.124"
---

# §171.124. Watertight integrity above the margin line in a vessel less than 100 gross tons.

- (a) Each hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight; except that, the following hatches may be weathertight:
  - (1) Each hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 12 inches (30.5 centimeters) above the weather deck.
  - (2) **Each hatch in a cabin top.**
  - (3) **Each hatch on a vessel that operates only on protected waters.**
- (b) **Each hatch cover must—**
  - (1) Have securing devices; and
  - (2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive chains, or to other devices to prevent its loss.
- (c) Each hatch that provides access to crew or passenger accommodations must be operable from either side.
- (d) Except as provided in [paragraph (e)](#e) of this section, a weathertight door with permanent watertight coamings that comply with the height requirements in table 171.124(d) must be provided for each opening located in a deck house or companionway that—
  - (1) Gives access into the hull; and
  - (2) **Is located in—**
    - (i) A cockpit;
    - (ii) A well; or
    - (iii) **An exposed location on a flush deck vessel.**
- (e) If an opening in a location specified in [paragraph (d)](#d) of this section is provided with a Class 1 watertight door, the height of the watertight coaming need only be sufficient to accommodate the door.

## Notes

### Amendments

[CGD 85-080, 62 FR 51354, Sept. 30, 1997]

### Authority

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

### Source

Source: CGD 79-023, 48 FR 51017, Nov. 4, 1983, unless otherwise noted.

### Amendments

[CGD 85-080, 62 FR 51354, Sept. 30, 1997]