(a) The COTP may consider and approve alternative procedures, methods, or equipment standards to be used by a vessel or facility operator in lieu of any requirements in this part if:
- (1) Compliance with the requirement is economically or physically impractical;
- (2) The vessel or facility operator submits a written request for the alternative at least 30 days before operations under the alternative are proposed, unless the COTP authorizes a shorter time; and
- (3) The alternative provides an equivalent level of safety and protection from pollution by oil or hazardous material, which is documented in the request.
- (b) The COTP takes final approval or disapproval action on any alternative requested, in writing, within 30 days of receipt of the request.
[CGD 75-124, 45 FR 7177, Jan. 31, 1980, as amended by CGD 86-034, 55 FR 36255, Sept. 4, 1990]