46 CFR 144.510: Windows as a means of escape
Last reviewed: October 14, 2026
This section lets a vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less use a window or windshield as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space. The window must be of sufficient size and proper accessibility. It must also meet three conditions on leading overboard, marking and opening.
Applies toA vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less in length.
What it says
On a vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less in length, a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space.
“On a vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less in length, a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space”
The window or windshield must not lead directly overboard.
46 CFR 144.510(a)“Does not lead directly overboard;”
The window or windshield must be suitably marked.
46 CFR 144.510(b)“Is suitably marked; and”
The window or windshield must have a means to open the window or break the glass.
46 CFR 144.510(c)“Has a means to open the window or break the glass.”
Common questions
Can a window be used as an escape route on a towing vessel?
Yes, on a vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less in length, a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space. It must meet the conditions in paragraphs (a) through (c).
“a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space”
Does an escape window have to be marked?
Yes. The window or windshield must be suitably marked.
“Is suitably marked; and”
Can an escape window lead directly overboard?
No. The window or windshield must not lead directly overboard.
“Does not lead directly overboard;”
The text of 46 CFR 144.510
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), current as of April 16, 2026 · Read it on eCFR
Window as a means of escape
On a vessel of 65 feet (19.8 meters) or less in length, a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space, provided it:
(a) Does not lead directly overboard;
(b) Is suitably marked; and
(c) Has a means to open the window or break the glass.
The plain-English explanation on this page was written with AI from the regulation text above and checked automatically before publishing: every quote appears in the text, every number comes from it, and a second model confirmed each statement adds nothing the text doesn't say. Regulation text current as of April 16, 2026. The regulation text governs. RegKnot is not affiliated with the U.S. Coast Guard.