§ 97.15-7 Verification of vessel compliance with applicable stability requirements.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, after loading and prior to departure and at all other times necessary to assure the safety of the vessel, the master or person in charge shall determine that the vessel complies with all applicable stability requirements in the vessel's trim and stability book, stability letter, Certificate of Inspection, and Load Line Certificate, as the case may be. The vessel may not depart until it is in compliance with these requirements. (b) When determining compliance with applicable stability requirements the vessel's draft, trim, and stability must be determined as necessary. (c) If a log book is required by § 97.35, then the master or person in charge must enter an attestation statement verifying that the vessel complies with the applicable stability requirements at the times specified in paragraph (a) and any stability calculations made in support of the determination must be retained on board the vessel for the duration of the voyage. (d) Stability verification is not required for tank barges whose Certificate of Inspection carries draft restrictions for purposes other than stability.