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USCG: Sector New Orleans Issues Safety Alert 01/19 – Towing Vessel Safety Alert

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03/25/2019 USCG Sector New Orleans issued Safety Alert 01-19

Recently there were three marine casualties that resulted in the sinking of towing vessels on the Lower Mississippi River.  The high water conditions on the Mississippi River present numerous risks for towing vessels, including unusually strong river currents and dynamic eddies.  The Coast Guard has issued the referenced Towing Vessel Safety Alert that contains recommendations for towing vessel operators and other responsible parties.

Click here to download Safety Alert 01-19 dated 03/25/2019

RIETF: Best Practices for High Water Events

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Following an increase in vessel casualties during ongoing high water, conversations with RADM Paul Thomas, Eighth District Commander and his staff have resulted in a clear message, safety must be improved throughout the District.  RADM Thomas has stated that he will use all available means within his authority to improve safety.    

The industry members of the River Industry Executive Task Force (RIETF) have developed a list of best practices during high water including 1) managing the risks of downstreaming; 2) ensuring that all water tight openings are closed at all times; 3) risk assessments for crew and vessels; and 4) “see something, say something” communications between towing vessels. 

Click here to download “RIETF: Best Practices for High Water Events.

We thank our industry partners in RIETF for sharing this valuable resource.

CG Proceedings Winter 2018 – Subchapter M, Towing the Line

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U.S. Coast Guard has published its Winter 2018 issue of the Proceedings Magazine, Volume 75, Number 3. The focus of this edition is Subchapter M: Towing the Line (download link below)

Download USCG – Winter 2018 Proceedings