---
kind: "section"
citation: "46 C.F.R. § 28.240"
title: "46"
number: "28.240"
heading: "General alarm system."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/46/28.240"
---

# §28.240. General alarm system.

- (a) Except as provided in [paragraph (f)](#f) of this section, each vessel with an accommodation space or a work space which is not adjacent to the operating station, must have an audible general alarm system with a contact-maker at the operating station suitable for notifying individuals on board in the event of an emergency.
- (b) The general alarm system must be capable of notifying an individual in any accommodation space or work space where they may normally be employed.
- (c) In a work space where background noise makes a general alarm system difficult to hear, a flashing red light must also be installed.
- (d) Each general alarm bell and flashing red light must be identified with red lettering at least 1/2 inch (13 millimeters) high as follows:
- (e) A general alarm system must be tested prior to operation of the vessel and at least once each week thereafter.
- (f) A public address system or other means of alerting all individuals on board may be used in lieu of a general alarm system provided it complies with paragraphs [(b)](#b), [(c)](#c), and [(e)](#e) of this section and can be activated from the operating station.

## Notes

### Amendments

[CGD 88-079, 56 FR 40393, Aug. 14, 1991, as amended by CGD 95-012, 60 FR 48048, Sept. 18, 1995]

### Authority

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3316, 4502, 4505, 4506, 6104, 8103, 10603; DHS Delegation 00170.1, Revision No. 01.4.

### Source

Source: CGD 88-079, 56 FR 40393, Aug. 14, 1991, unless otherwise noted.

### Amendments

[CGD 88-079, 56 FR 40393, Aug. 14, 1991, as amended by CGD 95-012, 60 FR 48048, Sept. 18, 1995]