The Coast Guard issued Marine Safety Alert 12-15 to warn mariners of the unusual hazards associated with the maritime industry, specifically waterfront facilities.

Following a recent incident involving line handling operations, the Coast Guard reminds port authorities, marine terminal operators, line handlers, longshoreman and others associated with such activities to consider:

• Developing policies and procedures that address potential hazards and minimize associated risks;
• Evaluating the need for utilizing quick release devices or other weak link arrangements; and
• Ensuring line handlers have the ability to communicate with vessels during berthing or un-berthing procedures.

It is also recommended that vessel operators and deck officers’ use caution and remain vigilant of all components when hauling in, ensuring that lines and cables are clear and free of attachments. Special attention should be given to the mooring lines as they are coming off the dock and being hauled aboard.

For full details, please view the entire marine safety alert.

This blog is not a replacement or substitute for the formal posting of regulations and updates or existing processes for receiving formal feedback of the same. Links provided on this blog will direct the reader to official source documents, such as the Federal Register, Homeport and the Code of Federal Regulations. These documents remain the official source for regulatory information published by the Coast Guard.