Bureau Veritas launches industry-backed guidelines 1

International classification society Bureau Veritas (BV) has worked closely with the towing industry to develop a comprehensive set of Guidelines for Design, Construction and Operation of Tugs.

The guidance note provides harmonised and rationalised safety rules for tugs in an area of marine safety where there are many vessels not covered by international conventions and no agreed international rule framework.

BV business development manager for offshore service vessels and tugs, Gijsbert de Jong, says: “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.”

The society has worked in close co-operation with a number of industry leaders, including Robert Allan, Damen Shipyards, Smit Lamnalco/Smit Towage and Kotug International, building the new framework on feedback received following experience with the work of the SafeTug joint industry project, which reported in 2010.

The rules allow designers and builders to select an operational profile and safely configure the tug accordingly. 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, lifesaving appliances, radio installations and navigation equipment is included, which 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 sea going tugs, the maximum bollard pull will be indicated, while for escort tugs the maximum steering force, braking force and escort speed will be stated.

BV is the world leader in the classification of towing vessels, with more than 1,650 tugs in class and 300 newbuilding vessels on its orderbook. That represents a 22 per cent market share of International Association of Classification Societies-classed tugs.

The society believes that one of the key issues facing the tug industry is a lack of clear global safety guidelines and rules. The new guidelines are expected to set a new baseline for all tug builders and operators and help make the whole industry safer and more effective. TTB