Tug Boat and Towing Operations Safety Checklist
This tug boat and towing operations safety checklist ensures compliance with USCG 46 CFR Subchapter M (Towing Vessels), IMO MSC/Circ.884 (Guidelines for Safe Ocean Towing), and company towing safety management procedures. Tug capsize from girting remains a leading cause of maritime fatalities during harbor assist operations.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
- Role: Tug Master / Mate
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: USCG 46 CFR Subchapter M Towing Vessels, IMO MSC/Circ.884 Guidelines Safe Ocean Towing, USCG NVIC 2-95 Towing Vessel Operations, ILO MLC 2006 Towing Vessel Crew Safety, Company Towing Safety Management Procedures
Tug Pre-Operation Readiness
Pre-operation tug inspection.
- Main engine started and at readiness before operation?
- Steering gear tested in all directions?
- Tug deck clear of obstructions for towing operations?
- LSA checked - lifejackets, lifebuoy, EPIRB serviceable?
- Crew briefed on operation and girting/capsizing risk?
Towing Gear Inspection
Towline and hook condition.
- Towline/hawser inspected for wear, kinks, and broken wires?
- Towing hook quick-release mechanism tested and functional?
- Towing winch brake tested and wire length confirmed?
- Required bollard pull sufficient for vessel and conditions?
- All towing fairleads and bitts clear and serviceable?
Girting Prevention
Capsize risk management.
- Crew briefed on girting risk and immediate release procedure?
- Tug stability adequate for current deadweight and conditions?
- Towline angle monitored to prevent excessive heel?
- Abort criteria for unsafe conditions established with pilot?
- Non-essential crew kept away from towing deck area?
Communications
Operational communications.
- VHF communications confirmed with pilot and vessel being assisted?
- Whistle/bell signals for towing agreed with pilot?
- Port control notified of towing operation (where required)?
- Emergency release signal known to pilot and vessel?
- All deck crew wearing hard hat, gloves, and safety footwear?
Active Tow Monitoring
Operations monitoring.
- Continuous watch on towline tension and angle?
- Towing speed within safe limits for configuration?
- Weather monitored and operation suspended if unsafe?
- Towed vessel movements monitored throughout?
- Tug operations logged in deck logbook?
Tug Records
Post-operation documentation.
- Job completion time logged?
- Job report submitted to dispatcher/port agent?
- Towing gear inspected and defects noted after operation?
- Any incidents, parted lines, or near-misses formally documented?
- Tug Operations Notes
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Why Use This Tug Boat and Towing Operations Safety Checklist?
This tug boat and towing operations safety checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for tug master / mate professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with USCG 46 CFR Subchapter M Towing Vessels, IMO MSC/Circ.884 Guidelines Safe Ocean Towing, USCG NVIC 2-95 Towing Vessel Operations, ILO MLC 2006 Towing Vessel Crew Safety, Company Towing Safety Management Procedures. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Tug Boat and Towing Operations Safety Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Tug Pre-Operation Readiness, Towing Gear Inspection, Girting Prevention, Communications, Active Tow Monitoring, Tug Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
Who should use this Tug Boat and Towing Operations Safety Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Tug Master / Mate professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.