(a) If the applicable subpart requires production inspections and tests by an independent laboratory, the manufacturer must select a laboratory and submit an application for acceptance that meets § 159.010-5(a) unless the laboratory—

(1) Is listed in the subpart; or

(2) Is accepted by the Commandant for approval inspections and tests of the equipment or material under § 159.005-7(a)(1).

(b) If the manufacturer wants to follow the laboratory's procedures for production inspections and tests instead of meeting the Coast Guard procedures under this subchapter, the application must contain a description of those procedures.