Coast Guard inspects boat for field trips

BALTIMORE – Marine inspectors from Coast Guard Sector Baltimore conducted a simplified stability inspection on a Maryland Environmental Service crew boat being modified to transport school children to Hart-Miller Island State Park, Md., in the upper Chesapeake Bay, Monday.

The inspection consisted of taking measurements of the vessel, testing the maximum weight allowance and simulating passenger movements that could compromise the stability of the boat.

The test was requested by MES due to a requirement of Baltimore County Public School administrators who require vessels participating in the environmental tours be inspected and boat operators be licensed.

The stability test is one of several hundred that marine inspectors conduct each year for vessels in the Port of Baltimore.

Coast Guard marine inspectors are responsible for the safety of America’s ports and ensuring the movement of maritime commerce, which encompasses 95% of all goods entering the U.S.

The marine inspectors primary mission is the safety of people working throughout the ports. By enforcing the required laws and regulations under the international convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, the inspectors are able to promote a safe working environment for vessel operators as well as the passengers they transport.