Resources for Uninspected Towing Vessel Operators

There are still a significant number of towing vessel that have not been examined under the Coast Guard's Bridging Program. As the Coast Guard trains more examiners and becomes more proficient in conducting uninspected towing vessel (UTV) exams, the bar for operators is steadily rising. In their continuing effort to help the industry demonstrate full compliance the Coast Guard has published a new edition of "United States Coast Guard Requirements for Uninspected Towing Vessels." This is the best comprehensive reference for a particular class of vessel that has ever been published by the Coast Guard. In addition to the excellent explanation of the regulations, there are useful appendixes which include frequently asked questions, and a collection of those ever-elusive Policy Letters which contain a wealth of information. Whether your company is still struggling to get their vessels examined, or you consider yourself an expert on the topic, this publication deserves a serious look. There is something for even the most experienced among us to learn.

Additionally, a client of mine recently returned for the UTV examiner course at the Coast Guard Training Center in Yorktown, VA. The week-long course is mainly for Coast Guard personnel, but a number of seats are dedicated for industry personnel. The course was reportedly, very informative and the binder of training material I reviewed contained a great deal of useful information. My client said one of the most important things that he got out of the course was to witness the Coast Guard's approach compliance which was a real eye opener. If you can get into one of these courses it will definitely be worth the trip.