COMDTINST M3120.9 governs Coast Guard cutter seamanship, including deck operations and evolutions.
View COMDTINST M3120.9 on armypubs.army.mil
It defines shipboard directions, relative bearings, ship motion, and measurement terminology. It covers safety and operational requirements for launch and recovery, mooring, anchoring, towing, and fueling evolutions, including risk management, communications, equipment checks, personal protective equipment, and qualification requirements.
Applies to: The following requirements are generic in nature and applicable to all cutters during launch and recovery operations.
Cutters shall complete risk management as part of evolution planning per Chapter 3. (paragraph 1)
PFDs, hard hats, safety footwear shall be worn. (paragraph 1)
Launch and recovery personnel shall satisfactorily complete three day and one night launch and recovery every six months for the highest position held, per davit type, to maintain certification currency. (paragraph 1)
All mooring equipment shall be visually inspected prior to and after each use. (paragraph 1)
Ensure all lines are free of kinks prior to use. (paragraph 9)