Code of Federal Regulations Title 46. Shipping § 46.45.183 Load line requirements for the St. Joseph and Muskegon routes

(i) The barge is less than 10 years old;

(ii) The draft during the survey does not exceed 15 inches (380 millimeters);

(iii) The barge is empty and thoroughly cleaned of all debris, excessive rust, scale, mud, and water. All internal structure must be accessible for inspection;

(iv) Gaugings are taken to the extent necessary to verify that the scantlings are in accordance with approved drawings;

(v) The hull plating (bottom and sides) and stiffeners below the light waterline are closely examined internally. If the surveyor determines that sufficient cause exists, the surveyor may require that the barge be drydocked or hauled out and further external examination conducted;  and

(vi) The initial load line certificate is to be issued for a term of 5 years or until the barge reaches 10 years of age, whichever occurs first. Once this certificate expires, the barge must be drydocked or hauled out and fully examined internally and externally.