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.