Each entry made in the official logbook—
(1) shall be made as soon as possible after the occurrence;
(2) if not made on the day of the occurrence, shall be dated and state the date of the occurrence;
(3) if the entry is about an occurrence happening before the vessel’s arrival at the final port of discharge, shall be made not later than 24 hours after the arrival;
(4) shall be signed by the master; and
(5) shall be signed by the chief mate or another seaman.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 581.)