Action Item: The Coast Guard finalized its NVIC,
published earlier this year in draft form, which endeavors to
provide a uniform policy interpretation of when a casualty report
is and is not required. Vessel owners, operators, and crew managers
should review the policy guidance to ensure that their own
reporting procedures are in line with Coast Guard
interpretations.
New Developments
On July 21, 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard released Navigation and
Vessel Inspection Circular 01-15 ("NVIC 01-15"), titled
Marine Casualty Reporting Procedures Guide with Associated Standard
Interpretations. The purpose of NVIC 01-15 is to clarify
terminology and phrases within the regulatory context, draw
attention to helpful regulatory citations, and provide concise
policy interpretations to assist vessel owners/operators with the
casualty reporting process. NVIC 01-15 can be located here.
