J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum One Design Class Rules Rules Change Research from 18 Sept 2008 BOG Meeting

I think the proposed wording relaxes the requirements too much if it is strictly by USCG regulations. There are some items on the list that reflect one design construction. I also am a stickler for safety and would recommend we not take things off the list, but rather make them optional so it forces people to make a conscious decision on safety matters. I've annotated the list below with recommendations. The order is as listed in the existing rules, but these could be grouped by USCG Required, One-Design Required, and Suggested Optional Equipment.

The USCG requirements may be found in a summary list at USCG Boating Safety Website .

Proposed Revised Wording
6.4 Safety Gear and Equipment. In addition to safety equipment required by Coast Guard and local regulations, the following equipment shall be carried onboard for one design racing. Optional suggested safety equipment is also included.

• Permanently installed navigation lights in working order One Design Required
• Fixed non-electric compass One Design Required
• Fog horn USCG Requirement
• Two water resistant flashlights Suggested but optional
• Two fire extinguishers of type and capacity required by local and Coast Guard regulations USCG Requirement
• PFD for each member of the crew USCG Requirement
• One throw-able lifesaving device within reach of the helmsman USCG Requirement
• Equipment capable of disconnecting or severing the standing rigging Suggested but optional
• First Aid Kit and manual Suggested but optional
• Five soft wood plugs of size to fit each below waterline through hull fitting Suggested but optional
• One permanently fitted manual bilge pump operable from the cockpit with all hatches, lockers and companionways closed. If handle is removable, it shall be tethered to prevent loss One Design Required
• Two rigid buckets with lanyards having a minimum capacity of two gallons each Suggested but optional
• One anchor and rode One Design Required
• Radar reflector (with minimum diameter of 8-10") Suggested but optional
• Depth sounder (or lead line) One Design Required
• Radio receiver capable of receiving weather bulletins One Design Required
• Distress signals meeting USCG requirements USCG Requirements
• Heaving line (minimum 50' length) within reach of the helmsman Suggested but optional