COMDTINST 11260.1 — U.s. Coast Guard Support Equipment - Weight And Material Handling Program Policy

COMDTINST 11260.1 governs the U.S. Coast Guard Support Equipment—Weight and Material Handling Program and its safe operation.

Search COMDTINST 11260.1

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 11260.1
  • Title: U.S. COAST GUARD SUPPORT EQUIPMENT - WEIGHT AND MATERIAL HANDLING PROGRAM POLICY
  • Date: 12/22/2021
  • Proponent: CG-4

View COMDTINST 11260.1 on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses procurement, maintenance, operations, terminology, equipment definitions, and guidance priorities for WHE/MHE. It requires applicable Coast Guard personnel to comply and sets provisions for contractors, environmental review, distribution, and records.

Applies to: This Instruction applies to all units that use WHE/MHE not affixed to an aircraft, boat or cutter.

Topics covered

  • Support equipment
  • Weight handling equipment
  • Material handling equipment
  • WHE/MHE operations
  • Equipment procurement and maintenance
  • Equipment testing and certification
  • OSHA and ANSI requirements

Questions and answers

What is the purpose of COMDTINST 11260.1?

The purpose of this Instruction is to establish policy for the operation of the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) Support Equipment - Weight and Material Handling (WHE/MHE) Program. (paragraph 1)

What must Coast Guard personnel do under COMDTINST 11260.1?

All Coast Guard personnel including Active Duty, Reserve, Civilian, and Auxiliary that use or require the use of WHE/MHE must become familiar with this Instruction and are responsible for full compliance.

Can contractors operate Coast Guard-owned WHE/MHE?

Contractors are not permitted to direct, operate, or participate in any actions related to the use of Coast Guard owned WHE/MHE, unless specifically covered by a negotiated agreement.

Are Department of Defense standardization documents mandatory under COMDTINST 11260.1?

Department of Defense standardization documents may be used as non-compulsory references from the Defense Logistics Agency at https://quicksearch.dla.mil/qsSearch.aspx. (paragraph 5)

How is COMDTINST 11260.1 distributed?

No paper distribution will be made of this Instruction. An electronic version will be located on the following Commandant (CG-612) web sites. (paragraph 8)

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