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46 U.S.C. 3308: ExaminationsText contains those laws in effect through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
From Title 46-SHIPPINGCHAPTER 33-INSPECTION GENERALLY

§3308. Examinations

In addition to inspections required by section 3307 of this title, the Secretary shall examine or have examined⁠—

(1)  each vessel subject to inspection at proper times to ensure compliance with law and regulations; and

(2)  crewmember accommodations on each vessel subject to inspection at least once a month or when the vessel enters United States ports to ensure that the accommodations are⁠—

(A)  of the size required by law and regulations;

(B)  properly ventilated and in a clean and sanitary condition; and

(C)  equipped with proper plumbing and mechanical appliances required by law and regulations, and the appliances are in good working condition.

( Pub. L. 98–89 , Aug. 26, 1983 , 97 Stat. 514 ; Pub. L. 104–324, title VI, § 603(c) , Oct. 19, 1996 , 110 Stat. 3930 .)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised section

Source section (U.S. Code)

3308

46:435

46:660a

46:660b

Section 3308 requires the Secretary to carry out additional inspections as might be necessary to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and to ensure that accommodations are maintained in a sanitary condition and that all appliances are in good working order.

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996⁠—Pub. L. 104–324 inserted “or have examined” after “examine” in introductory provisions.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Apr. 15, 1984, see section 2(g)(1) of Pub. L. 98–89, set out as a note under section 3101 of this title.