VENTILATION
A ventilation system provides fresh air to compartments within a boat that have the potential of accumulating gasoline vapors from gasoline engines or fuel tanks.
A ventilation system (natural or powered) is required if the boat has any of the following types of gasoline engines or engines that use fuels with a flash point of 110 degrees or less:
- electrical generation
- mechanical power
- propulsion
Ventilation systems are also required for these situations:
- a permanently installed fuel tank and an electrical component that is not ignition-protected;
- an opening between the engine and a compartment that requires ventilation;
- the compartment contains a fuel tank that vents into that compartment (including a portable tank); and contains a non-metallic fuel tank.
Natural Ventilation Systems
A compartment can be naturally vented by one of three ways:
- An air intake opening (either a duct or cowl) that draws in fresh air directly into the compartment as the boat moves forward, or
- A compartment that is open to the atmosphere; or
- From an exhaust opening into another ventilated compartment or an exhaust duct to the atmosphere.
Power Ventilation Systems
Since 1980, a powered ventilation system is required for each compartment in a boat that has a permanently installed gasoline engine with a cranking motor for remote starting.
Operate the power ventilation blower for a minimum of four (4) minutes prior to starting the engine, especially after fueling.
- Each exhaust opening or exhaust duct must originate in the lower one-third of the compartment.
- Make sure that the ducts and exhaust openings are above bilge water.
- Look for a label containing the words "This boat complies with U.S. Coast Guard safety standards," etc., to assure that the ventilation system meets applicable regulations.
|
 |
Check ventilation systems frequently. Look for obstructions, crimped hoses, rips or tears. Make repairs immediately. Faulty ventilation blowers must be replaced with equivalent marine grade equipment (never use standard automotive parts to replace marine parts).
|
