COMDTINST M16616.11D governs Coast Guard inspections of intermodal containers and cargo to support maritime safety, security, and regulatory compliance.
View COMDTINST M16616.11D on armypubs.army.mil
The publication covers container inspection methods, performance goals, safety hazards, emergency egress, medical care, inspection criteria, and legal authorities. It requires specific forms for inspections, annual performance-goal reporting, and safety measures for hazardous conditions.
Applies to: This applies anywhere within the COTP’s zone of jurisdiction as long as the container was, is being, or is intended to be transported by water mode.
COTPs must annually establish a fiscal year goal for the number of containers to be inspected. (paragraph 3)
The Hazardous Materials & Intermodal Container Inspection Report (Form CG-5577) and/or Intermodal Container Non-Deficiency Inspection Report, (Form CG-5577A) must be used during all container inspections. (paragraph 9)
Any container may be inspected without a warrant if there is reason to believe an emergency situation exists. (paragraph 2)
Containers with PIH commodities, as identified in the Hazardous Material Table (49 C.F.R. § 172.101), or with “FUMIGANT” warning signs per 49 C.F.R. § 173.9 or Section 5.5.2.3 of the IMDG Code may be opened, but must only be inspected visually without the inspector crossing the plane of the container doorway. (paragraph 2)
If any container falls beyond tolerances specified in Reference (o), the inspector must detain and take the container out of service and require it to be repaired to a safe condition. (paragraph 1)