[Rhodes22-list] Engine Cut Off Switch - New regulations as of April 1, 2021

[Rick Lange]

You have to add foils to get an r22 to plane.


Rick Lange

On Thu, Apr 8, 2021, 11:05 AM Michael D. Weisner <mweisner at ebsmed.com>
wrote:

> I just came across some important information regarding boating safety and
> the use of an ECOS (Engine Cut Off Switch).
>
>
>
>    "Effective April 1, 2021, the new law requires a vessel operator to use
>
>     either a helm or outboard lanyard or wireless ECOS on certain vessels
>
>     less than 26 feet when traveling on plane or above displacement speed.
>
>     These vessels include (1) boats that have a functioning engine cutoff
>
>     device installed at the helm or on an outboard engine or have wireless
>
>     ECOS, or (2) boats manufactured beginning January 2020. The Coast
>
>     Guard increased the number of boats required to have ECOS installed
>
>     after this date in an effort to reduce boating accidents and
> fatalities."
>
>
>
>    "Exceptions to the ECOS requirement include if the main helm of the
>
>     vessel is in an enclosed cabin or the vessel is not operating on plane
>
>     or at displacement speed. Low-speed activities such as fishing or
>
>     docking do not require use of an ECOS. The vessel operator is also
>
>     exempt if the boat's motor produces less than 115 lbs. of static
> thrust
>
>     - or about the size of a 2-hp engine."
>
>
>
> The new regs require that if your boat was manufactured in 2020 or later
> (does recycling count?), the boat/engine must be equipped with an ECOS and
> the LANYARD MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE OPERATOR. This is a safety device in
> case the operator is thrown from the craft to immediately stop the motor
> and
> prevent prop injuries to the person(s) in the water. It makes sense from a
> safety perspective.
>
>
>
> Furthermore, according to the USCG (even if not required by date of
> manufacture), "If an engine cut-off switch is present, it must be used."
>
>
>
> For details, check out:
>
>
> https://www.boatus.com/news-room/release/new-boat-engine-cutoff-switch-law-g
> oes-into-e
> <https://www.boatus.com/news-room/release/new-boat-engine-cutoff-switch-law-goes-into-e>
>
>
>
> or
>
> https://uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/engine-cut-off-switch-faq.php
>
>
>
> The new rule started this month. Failure to obey the terms of the rule may
> result in a civil penalty of $100.
>
>
>
> My 2005 6 HP Yamaha has such a device. I need to engage the ECOS lanyard to
> operate the engine. It is generally looped around the throttle when
> underway. I mainly considered it a theft deterrent, like a key for an
> ignition switch. It is kept in the locked cabin when we are not on the
> boat.
> I do not attach the lanyard to me. As such, it would do little to minimize
> risk in a situation in which I was thrown from the boat.
>
>
>
> So, a review of the facts is as follows:
>
> 1.      Rhodes 22 - all manufactured before 2020 - no ECOS required.
> 2.      Rhodes 22 w/outboard maximum speed is 4 to 5 kts, less than 6 kt
> displacement speed - no ECOS required. (hull speed or displacement speed
> calculator for LWL=20',
>
> https://www.easycalculation.com/physics/classical-physics/hull-speed-calcula
> tor.php
> <https://www.easycalculation.com/physics/classical-physics/hull-speed-calculator.php>
> )
> 3.      2005 6HP Yamaha - If an engine cut-off switch is present, it must
> be
> used.
>
>
>
> Resolution:
>
> I will attach the lanyard as often as possible when operating the engine,
> especially while at maximum speed. If I need to go forward while under
> power, I will designate an alternate helmsman who will attach the lanyard.
> If I am single handling, I will engage my autopilot tiller control and
> attach the lanyard to it.
>
>
>
> Mike
>
> s/v Wind Lass ('91)
>
> Nissequogue River, NY
>
>
>
>
>
>