What do the small passenger vessel regulations require when installing a hydraulic accumulator?

• A. Installed by the vessel owner
• B. Installed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI
• C. Inspected annually by the Coast Guard
• D. Located near the helm

Answer: (B)

The important point is that safety-critical equipment like a hydraulic accumulator on a small passenger vessel must be installed with approval from the Coast Guard's local inspector. The cognizant Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection reviews the installation plans and the actual setup to verify it meets all applicable regulations, standards, and safety criteria. This means the accumulator is sized, mounted, and plumbed correctly, with proper materials, fittings, protection from damage, and any required safety devices or testing. The installation isn’t considered compliant simply because the vessel owner installed it or because it passes a general inspection; the inspector must approve it to their satisfaction before it can be considered compliant. Other options—being installed by the owner alone, needing only an annual Coast Guard inspection, or being placed near the helm by rule—don’t capture the essence that regulatory approval by the OCMI is required to ensure the installation meets safety standards.