COMDTINST M16500.21A governs Coast Guard aids to navigation seamanship, including buoy operations, cutter boats, and related safety practices.
View COMDTINST M16500.21A on armypubs.army.mil
The publication includes changes to chain-hook use, cutter-boat crew requirements, Chapter 14, and buoy operations from boats. It provides operational guidance for Coast Guard personnel and includes procedures, environmental considerations, and no forms or reports.
Applies to: It is intended to provide operational guidance for Coast Guard personnel and is not intended to nor does it impose legally-binding requirements on any party outside the Coast Guard.
All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarters staff elements shall comply with the provisions of this Directives Change Notice. (paragraph 2)
ORM is required prior to ATON evolutions and coordinated teamwork is a critical component for the safety of the evolution. (paragraph 6)
Changing conditions such as: worsening weather conditions, fouled moorings, vessel traffic, an exhausted crew, broken weight handling equipment, inconsistent positioning equipment, are some examples which required a reevaluation of risk. (paragraph 6)
No other variations to the standard ATON evolution for ATON boats are authorized. (paragraph 2)
Recommendations for improvement shall be submitted to the Office of Cutter Forces (CG-751). (paragraph 1-1)