---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 174.220"
title: "46"
number: "174.220"
heading: "Hatches and coamings."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/174.220"
---

# §174.220. Hatches and coamings.

- (a) Each hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight, except that the following hatches may be only weathertight:
  - (1) Each hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 430 millimeters (17 inches) above the weather deck.
  - (2) **Each hatch in a cabin top.**
- (b) **Each hatch cover must—**
  - (1) Have securing-devices; and
  - (2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive chains, or other devices to prevent its loss.
- (c) Each hatch that provides access to quarters or to accommodation spaces for crew members or offshore workers must be capable of being opened and closed from either side.
- (d) Except as provided by [paragraph (e)](#e) of this section, a weathertight door with a permanent watertight coaming at least 380 millimeters (15 inches) high must be installed for each opening in a deckhouse or companionway that—
  - (1) Gives access into the hull; and
  - (2) **Is in an exposed place.**
- (e) If an opening in a deckhouse or companionway has a Class-1 watertight door installed, the height of the watertight coaming need only accommodate the door.

## Notes

### Source

Source: CGD 82-004 and CGD 86-074, 62 FR 49353, Sept. 19, 1997, unless otherwise noted.

### Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 9118, 9119, 9153; 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. Section 174.180 also issued under sec. 617, Pub. L. 111-281, 124 Stat. 2905.

### Source

Source: CGD 79-023, 48 FR 51048, Nov. 4, 1983, unless otherwise noted.