Industry-backed tug guidelines

The comprehensive guidance note provides harmonised and rationalised safety rules for tugs in an area of marine safety where many vessels are not covered by international conventions and no agreed international rule framework exists, it said.
Gijsbert de Jong, business development manager for offshore service vessels and tugs at France-based BV, said, “Active involvement with industry stakeholders was vital to building these rules. They are pragmatic and they are developed around the latest technical developments with an open mind towards innovation.”
BV has worked in close cooperation with a number of industry leaders, including Robert Allan Ltd, Damen Shipyards, Smit Lamnalco/Smit Towage and Kotug International, building the new framework on feedback received on experience with the work of the SafeTug JIP, which reported in 2010.
The rules allow designers and builders to select an operational profile and configure the tug safely. The requirements cover design loads, stability criteria, strength and operational criteria for towing equipment and anchor equipment. For ships not covered by the SOLAS convention, a practical safety matrix with requirements for fire safety, life-saving appliances, radio installations and navigation equipment is included. It takes into account the familiarity of the crew with the operating area and the availability of shore facilities and emergency assistance.
The tug’s design capability limits are clearly set out. For harbour tugs and seagoing tugs, the maximum bollard pull will be indicated, while for escort tugs the maximum steering force, maximum braking force and maximum escort speed will be stated, according to BV.
“Bureau Veritas is the world leader in the classification of tugs, with over 1,650 tugs in class and 300 newbuilding tugs on its order book. That represents a 22% market share of IACS-classed tugs," de Jong said. "The global market for tugs is changing quickly as ship sizes increase. There are also more offshore terminal operations, broader escort requirements and increased pressure to reduce emissions.
"One of the issues facing the tug industry is a lack of clear global safety guidelines and rules. BV’s new 'Guidelines for Design, Construction and Operation of Tugs' will set a new baseline for all tug builders and operators and help make the whole industry safer and more effective.”