(a) Each lifeboat must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
- (1) Follow the general format and content specified in MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart); and
- (2) Include a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the lifeboat.
- (b) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard.
- (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.