The Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance has issued MSIB 06-21, “Towing Vessel International Certificates Requirements and Certificate of Inspection Routes”, to remind U.S. flag towing vessel owners and operators that the vessel must possess the appropriate certificates and endorsements for the intended voyage.
6/15/2017: New policy letter on Subchapter M implementation
This policy letter provide guidance to the Officer(s) in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) and Coast Guard marine inspectors as well as the towing industry on how to obtain initial COIs for greater than the percentage of the towing vessels outlined in 46 CFR 136.202 of 46 CFR Subchapter M.
5/24/2017: New policy letter on Subchapter M implementation released
The new policy letter covers use of previously conducted audits under existing safety management systems, such as the ISM Code and American Waterways Operators’ Responsible Carrier Program, as objective evidence of compliance for the issuance of a towing vessel’s initial certificate of inspection.
3/13/2017: New policy letters on Subchapter M implementation
Policy letters provide clarity regarding the issuance of certificates of compliance and tankerman person-in-charge endorsements.
6/10/2016: Update on Subchapter M from the Towing Vessel National Center of Expertise
Today, the Office of the Federal Register posted notice of the Subchapter M rule to the public inspection webpage. Once published, Subchapter M will establish safety regulations governing the inspection and standards of towing vessels, while providing a safety management system compliance option.
10/26/2015: New FAQ on bridge-to-bridge certificate for towing vessels
A new FAQ has been posted on when towing vessels are required to have the bridge-to-bridge radiotelephone station inspected and obtain a bridge-to-bridge certificate.
9/9/2015: Towing Vessel Center of Expertise works with private sector to understand industry concerns
Recently, the Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy visited one of the six national centers of expertise to focus on the complexity of maritime transportation on the Western Rivers.
9/9/2014 Safety alert: Air draft is critical!
The Coast Guard issued marine safety alert 09-14 to bring attention to failing to properly calculate a vessel’s vertical clearance when passing under bridges, power lines and other obstructions.
4/24/2014 Fuel Shut-Off Valve Remote Operator: New FAQ posted
A new FAQ regarding fuel shut-off valve remote operators has been posted on the Towing Vessel National Center of Expertise website.
