Step 3 of 3•2 minutes read
Guidance and Publications
Many publications guide towing, emergency preparedness, and general health and safety in the maritime industry. Many of these are company and country-specific, but some govern the industry.
SOLAS
Chapter II Regulation 3.4 provides the framework for the legislation and provision of emergency towing systems.
SOLAS Consolidated Edition 2020, IMO Publications.
IMO MSC 256 (84)
IMO MSC 256(84) was the resolution that introduced the amendments to the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) that incorporated the emergency towing systems into Chapter II.
Government Guidance and Legislation
Each country will guide merchant seafarers on the safe use and operation of all towing equipment. An example of this is MGN 592 from the MCA in the UK. This provides details of how to comply with the provisions of SOLAS when operating a British-flagged vessel or when in British waters. You will need to look for your own flag country's guidance and check the guidance in any countries you are sailing to ensure you remain compliant with local port and flag state inspections.