RBOC today submitted formal comments to the Division of Boating and Waterways in State Parks, supporting the adoption of proposed amendments to the personal flotation device [PFD] provisions in the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 4, Chapter 1 (CCR) Sections 6656.2, 6656.4, 6565.5, 6565.6, and 6565.7.
RBOC supports the objective of the amendments to:
Remove references to type codes found on PFDs which in turn will facilitate future incorporation by reference of new industry consensus standards for PFD labeling that more effectively convey safety information to boaters and is a step toward harmonization of USCG regulations with PFD requirements in Canada and in other countries. These regulatory changes will align CCR with federal statute and provide consistency throughout the state on use of PFD terminology.
Move the requirements found in Title 14 CCR 6567.7 (a) to section 6565.5 to ensure boaters understand what “readily accessible” means if they are over 13 years of age and choose not to wear a PFD, and to more clearly define what “readily accessible” means.
Add definitions of “personal flotation device” and “wearable PFD” consistent with 33CFR Subpart B—Personal Flotation Devices § 175.13 to ensure regulatory language found in CCR is consistent throughout the state on use of PFD terminology.