(a) The Secretary may provide for annual, renewal, and other load line surveys.
(b) In conducting a load line survey, the Secretary shall consider whether-
(1) the hull and fittings of the vessel-
(A) are adequate to protect the vessel from the sea; and
(B) meet other requirements the Secretary may prescribe by regulation;
(2) the strength of the hull is adequate for all loading conditions;
(3) the stability of the vessel is adequate for all loading conditions;
(4) the topsides of the vessel are arranged and constructed to allow rapid overboard drainage of deck water in heavy weather; and
(5) the topsides of the vessel are adequate in design, arrangement, and equipment to protect crewmembers performing outside tasks necessary for safe operation of the vessel.
(
Section 5105 authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide for load line surveys and requires that while conducting a load line survey, the Secretary must consider various strength, stability, design, and construction features of the vessel.