What is the required size of the horizontal line intersecting the load line ring?

The required size of the horizontal line intersecting the load line ring is 18 inches. This measurement is standardized to ensure that the load line is clearly visible and can be easily read by personnel involved in safe loading practices. The load line serves as a critical indicator of a vessel's loading capacity and stability, and having a defined size ensures consistency across different vessels and applications.

This dimension is part of the Marine Safety regulations aimed at preventing overloading and maintaining buoyancy. The importance of having a clearly demarcated load line cannot be understated, as it plays a significant role in maritime safety, protecting both the vessel and its crew.