46 C.F.R. § 199.120 – Launching stations.

(a) Each launching station must be positioned to ensure safe launching with clearance from the propeller and from the steeply overhanging portions of the hull.
(b) Each survival craft must be launched down the straight side of the vessel, except for free-fall launched survival craft.
(c) Each launching station in the forward part of the vessel must—
1. (1) Be in a sheltered position that is located aft of the collision bulkhead; and
2. (2) Have a launching appliance approved with an endorsement as being of sufficient strength for forward installation.