(a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, an existing vessel must comply with the regulations on machinery, bilge and ballast system equipment, steering apparatus, and piping systems or components that were applicable to the vessel on March 10, 1996, or, as an alternative, the vessel may comply with the regulations in this part.

(b) New installations of machinery, bilge and ballast system equipment, steering equipment, and piping systems or components on an existing vessel, which are completed to the satisfaction of the cognizant Office in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) on or after March 11, 1996, must comply with the regulations of this part. Replacement of existing equipment installed on the vessel prior to March 11, 1996, need not comply with the regulations in this part.

(c) On or before March 11, 1999, an existing vessel must comply with the bilge high level alarm requirements in § 119.530 of this section.