General requirement.

The construction and arrangement of a vessel must allow the safe operation of the vessel in accordance with the terms of its Certificate of Inspection giving consideration to provisions for a seaworthy hull, protection against fire, means of escape in case of a sudden unexpected casualty, guards and rails in hazardous places, ventilation of enclosed spaces, and necessary facilities for passengers and crew. [CGD 85-080, 61 FR 961, Jan. 10, 1996, as amended by CGD 97-057, 62 FR 51050, Sept. 30, 1997]