It's the Law: Required Equipment

Includes: Ventilation Systems, Backfire Flame Arrestors and Mufflers and Noise Level Limits

Ventilation Systems

The purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion.

• All gasoline-powered vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.
• If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes both after fueling and before starting your engine.
• If your vessel is not equipped with a power ventilation system (for example, a personal watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting the engine.

Backfire Flame Arrestors

Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent the ignition of gasoline vapors in case the engine backfires.

All powerboats (except outboards) that are fueled with gasoline must have an approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor.

Backfire flame arrestors must be:

• In good and serviceable condition and ...
• U.S. Coast Guard–approved (must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards).

Periodically clean the flame arrestor(s) and check for damage.

Mufflers and Noise Level Limits

• Every vessel with an engine must be equipped with a muffler system that is in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive noise.
• A vessel must not exceed the following noise levels.
  • Measured using a stationary test: for engines manufactured before January 1, 1994, a noise level of 90 decibels; for engines manufactured on or after January 1, 1994, a noise level of 88 decibels
  • Measured from the shoreline: for all vessels, an operational noise level of 75 decibels
• You may not remove or modify a muffler or muffling system if the result is increased noise level.
• The use of a muffler cutout or a muffler bypass system is prohibited, except while engaged in organized racing events in an area designated for that purpose.