(a) The master shall ensure that the vessel's required firefighting equipment is on board in the prescribed location and always ready for use, other than when the equipment is being serviced.

(b) The master shall, at least once each 12 months, ensure the performance of the tests and inspections of each portable fire extinguisher, semiportable fire extinguisher, and fixed fire-extinguishing system aboard described by Table 132.350 of this subchapter.

(c) The master shall keep records of these tests and inspections, showing the dates of their performance, the number or other identification of each unit undergoing them, and the name of the person or company conducting them. The records must be made available to the marine inspector upon request and must be kept for the period of validity of the vessel's current Certificate of Inspection.

(d) The conducting of tests and inspections required by this section does not relieve the master of his or her responsibility to maintain the prescribed firefighting equipment in working order for use at any time when the vessel is under way.