Collection: CFR 46 Subchapter M: Towing Vessel Inspection Regulations
In 2004, the United States Coast Guard was tasked by Congress to provide a detailed set of towing vessel inspection regulations. Up until this point, there was no formal Coast Guard inspection and most vessels were operating freely and without any oversight. In consultation with the towing industry and concerned members of the public, the proposed regulations were sent for review and submitted to the Federal Registrar in 2011. The final rules were published in 2016 and fully implemented by 2018. This meant there were now specifically outlined safety standards throughout the industry, covering every type of vessel. After over 25 years of third parties working towards achieving the goal of a safe and environmentally friendly waterborne business sector, reaching the establishment of these inspections was a significant milestone for everyone involved.
The CFR 46 Subchapter M: Towing Vessel Inspection Regulations is divided into nine different parts:
Part 136 - Certification
Part 137 - Vessel Compliance
Part 138 - Towing Safety Management Systems (TSMS)
Part 139 - Third-Party Organizations
Part 140 - Operations
Part 141 - Lifesaving
Part 142 - Fire Protection
Part 143 - Machinery and Electrical Systems and Equipment
Part 144 - Construction and Arrangement
This publication of rules and regulations surrounding towing vessels will allow any type of marine personnel to fully understand and have access to essential information. This will also enable preparedness when their vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard. Once a vessel receives a Certificate of Inspection, they must remain compliant with the rules. Purchase your copy of CFR 46 Subchapter M: Towing Vessel Inspection Regulations today to ensure that your vessel remains inspection-ready.
