COMDTINST 16000.73 — Marine Safety: Port State Control

COMDTINST 16000.73 governs Coast Guard port state control examinations of foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters.

Search COMDTINST 16000.73

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16000.73
  • Title: MARINE SAFETY: PORT STATE CONTROL
  • Date: 9/20/2021
  • Proponent: CG-CVC

View COMDTINST 16000.73 on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses international conventions, ISPS-related deficiencies, non-Convention vessel security, and procedures for foreign passenger vessels. It requires examination activities, vessel security measures, and examination records to be documented and maintained.

Applies to: This chapter explains the application of the laws, convention agreements, and regulations that apply to all foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters.

Topics covered

  • Port state control examinations
  • Foreign vessel inspections
  • ISPS-related deficiencies
  • Non-Convention vessel security compliance
  • Foreign passenger vessel procedures
  • International Labour Organization Convention No. 147
  • Vessel examination records

Questions and answers

What is port state control?

Port State Control (PSC) is the process by which a nation exercises its authority over foreign vessels in waters subject to its jurisdiction. (paragraph 1)

What does the Coast Guard verify through the PSC program?

Through the PSC program, the Coast Guard verifies that foreign flagged vessels operating in U.S. waters comply with applicable international conventions, U.S. laws, and U.S. regulations. (paragraph 1)

What must PSCOs document in MISLE?

PSCOs must document all examination activities in MISLE using the most current Mission Management System Work Instruction on MISLE data entry for foreign vessel arrivals, examinations, and operational controls. (paragraph 1-2)

What information must be maintained for each foreign vessel examination?

A file must be maintained on each foreign vessel examination which includes copies of Forms A and B (as applicable), detention reports, and related message traffic or other correspondence as directed by the Coast Guard Information and Lifecycle Management Manual, COMDTINST M5212.12 (series).

What security plans must non-SOLAS foreign commercial vessels subject to MTSA have?

Non-SOLAS foreign commercial vessels subject to MTSA should have USCG-approved Vessel Security Plans (VSP) that meet the requirements of 33 CFR 104.405. (paragraph 1)

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