Towing Operations Course

Today, towing a large ship is fraught with potential hazards and accidents during towing operations are all too common. In port, tugs are often working in a restricted space with limited room for manoeuvre, while long distance offshore tows have their own particular problems. This course shows how the risks of a towing operation can be minimised through thorough preparation, effective teamwork and communication, and by adopting best practice in all procedures.

Target User:

Ships' Masters, officers and crews.

Course Prerequisites:

None

Course Outcomes:

After completing the course, trainees will understand the safety issues involved in towing operations. They will be able to plan and undertake a harbour towing operation using best safety practice, and will know the legal requirements for emergency towing. Trainees who complete Module 4 will also learn how to carry out an offshore towing operation safely.

• Learn about the three-stage preparation process for a towing operation: exchange of information, planning, and risk assessment
• Become familiar with different types of tug and the different types of towing assistance they offer
• Learn best practice as regards equipment inspection and maintenance
• Understand the importance of good planning and communication between all parties
• Know how to make fast and let go safely
• Learn the legal requirements for emergency towing arrangements and procedures
• Understand the factors involved in offshore towing, with emphasis on checking and protecting towlines, and collision avoidance

Mode of Delivery

The course is a modular with theoretical and practical (simulator).

Course Contents

Module 1 – Carrying Out Safe Towing Operations
Module 2 – Carrying Out a Safe Harbour Towing Operation
Module 3 – Emergency Towing Arrangements
Module 4 – Offshore Towing Operations