GUIDELINES FOR THE APPROVABILITY

OF TOWING VESSELS

No: 0021/NDI

01.04.2002 5 JMRL TPB

01.12.2001 4 JMRL TPB

01.04.2001 3 JMRL/JR For use in TVAS

02.04.1996 2 JMRL For use in TVAS

28.12.1989 1 PAC TPB

Date Rev. Prepared by Authorised by

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PREFACE
This document has been drawn with care to address what are likely to be the main
concerns based on the experience of the Noble Denton organisation. This should not,
however, be taken to mean that this document deals comprehensively with all of the
concerns which will need to be addressed or even, where a particular matter is
addressed, that this document sets out the definitive view of the organisation for all
situations. In using this document, it should be treated as giving guidelines for sound
and prudent practice on which our advice should be based, but these guidelines
should be reviewed in each particular case by the responsible person in each project
to ensure that the particular circumstances of that project are addressed in a way
which is adequate and appropriate to ensure that the overall advice given is sound
and comprehensive.

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CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE NO.
1 INTRODUCTION 4
1.1 Background 4
1.2 Towing Vessels Approvability Scheme 4
1.3 Summary of Requirements 4
1.4 Other Noble Denton Guidelines 4
1.5 Bollard Pull and Equipment Tests 4
2 DEFINITIONS 5
3 TOWING VESSEL CATEGORIES 7
3.1 Ocean-Going Salvage Tug (ST) 7
3.2 Unrestricted Towages (U) 7
3.3 Restricted Towages (RI) 7
3.4 Benign Area Towages (R2) 8
3.5 Restricted Benign Area Towages (R3) 8
3.6 Limited Duration and Short Distance Towages 8
4 DOCUMENTATION 9
4.1 General Specification 9
4.2 General Arrangement Plans 9
4.3 Towing/Anchor-Handling Winches 9
4.4 Towing Equipment 9
4.5 Certificates 10
4.6 Salvage Equipment 10
5 TOWING EQUIPMENT 11
5.1 Ocean-Going Salvage Tugs (ST) 11
5.2 Unrestricted Towages (U) 12
5.3 Restricted Towages (RI) 12
5.4 Benign Area Towages (R2) 12
5.5 Restricted Benign Area Towages (R3) 13
5.6 All Entered Vessels 13
6 TOWING WINCH 15
7 TOWING WIRE PROTECTION AND CONTROL 16
7.1 Protectors 16
7.2 Tow Bars, Cargo Protection Rail, Bulwarks, Stern Rail, Tailgate and Stern Roller16
7.3 Adjustable Gogwire System 16
7.4 Fixed Gogwire System 16
7.5 Towing Pod 16
8 STABILITY 17
9 MANNING AND ACCOMMODATION 17
10 SEAKEEPING 18
11 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR SALVAGE TUGS (ST) 19
APPENDICES 20
Summary of Requirements 21
Bollard Pull Tests 23
Towing Equipment Tests 26

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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
1.1.1 These guidelines are the basis for the approval of towing vessels for specific
towages.
1.1.2 The guidelines are also the standard for owners, charterers, managers or builders of
towing vessels when they seek entry of a vessel into the Noble Denton Towing
Vessel Approvability Scheme.
1.1.3 These guidelines include a category for ocean-going salvage tugs.

1.2 Towing Vessels Approvability Scheme

1.2.1 Noble Denton Europe Ltd. (NDE) operate the Noble Denton Towing Vessel
Approvability Scheme on behalf of the Noble Denton Group.
1.2.2 These guidelines provide a standard against which a towing vessel will be assessed
for the issue of a Towing Vessel Approvability Certificate.
1.2.3 Such approvability does not imply that approval by designers, regulatory bodies,
harbour authorities and/or any other parties would be given. Nor does it imply
approval of a vessel for any specific towage or operation for which further
consideration of the suitability of the vessel for the towage or operation would be
required.

1.3 Summary of Requirements

A summary of the requirements for each towing vessel category is appended to this
document as Appendix A.

1.4 Other Noble Denton Guidelines

This document shall be read in conjunction with other Noble Denton current
guideline documents. In the event of conflict between two or more Noble Denton
Guideline Documents, the last dated shall apply unless specifically agreed otherwise.

1.5 Bollard Pull and Equipment Tests

Guidance notes for carrying out bollard pull and towing equipment tests are
appended to this document as Appendices B and C.

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2 DEFINITIONS
Approved Bollard Pull
For entry into the Noble Denton Towing Vessel Approvability Scheme vessels shall
normally be tested for bollard pull every 10 years.
The Approved Bollard Pull is the bollard pull which Noble Denton are prepared to
accepts for towing service. Where a certificate of Continuous Static Bollard Pull less
than 10 years old can be produced then this would normally be equated to the
Approved Bollard Pull.
For specific towage approvals, where the age of the Bollard Pull Certificate does not
comply with the above, Noble Denton may determine the bollard pull by using the
formula: 100 BHP (Certified BHP) = 1 tonne of bollard pull.
Benign Area
A “benign area” is defined as an area which is free of tropical revolving storms and
travelling depressions (but excluding the North Indian Ocean during Southwest
monsoon season, and South China Sea during Northeast monsoon season). The
specific extent and seasonal limitations of a benign area should be agreed with the
Noble Denton office concerned.
Bollard Pull
“BP” = Certified Continuous Static Bollard Pull in tonnes.
Breaking Load
“BL” = Certified Minimum Breaking Load of wire rope, chain or stretcher material
in tonnes.
Continuous Bollard Pull
The Continuous Static Bollard Pull (CBP) is the bollard pull obtained by a test at
100% of the Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR) of main engines, over a period of
10 minutes.
Maximum Bollard Pull
The Maximum Static Bollard Pull (MBP) is the bollard pull obtained by a test at
110% of the Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR) of main engines over a period of 5
minutes.
Maximum Continuous Rating
“MCR” = Manufacturer’s recommended Maximum Continuous Rating of main
engines.
Noble Denton
The term Noble Denton means any operating office of the Noble Denton Group.

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Noble Denton Europe Ltd.

The company within the Noble Denton Group operating the Towing Vessel
Approvability Scheme is Noble Denton Europe Ltd. (NDE).
Register
The “Register” is the list published from time to time of towing vessels, including all
towing vessels entered into the Towing Vessel Approvability Scheme.
Safe Working Load
“SWL” = Safe Working Load in tonnes.
Tonnes
Metric tonnes of 1000 kg (approximately 2204.6 lbs) are used throughout this
document. The necessary conversions must be made for equipment rated in long tons
(2240 lbs, approximately 1016 kg) or short tons (2000 lbs, approximately 907 kg).
Towing Vessel Approvability Certificate
A “Towing Vessel Approvability Certificate” (TVAC) is a document issued by NDE
stating that a vessel complied with these guidelines at the time of survey, or was
reportedly unchanged at the time of revalidation, in terms of design, construction,
equipment and condition, and is considered suitable for use in towing service within
the limitations of its Category, bollard pull and any geographical limitations which
may be imposed.
Towing Vessel Approvability Scheme
The Noble Denton “Towing Vessel Approvability Scheme” (the Scheme) is the
scheme whereby owners of vessels may apply to have their vessels surveyed and
entered into the Scheme and the Register. The Scheme is administered by Rules, a
copy of which may be obtained from NDE.
Towing Vessel Report
A Towing Vessel Report is the surveyor’s report on which the issue of a TVAC is
based.

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3 TOWING VESSEL CATEGORIES

Vessels which are entered into the Scheme or proposed for towing duties will be
designated one of five (5) categories. The requirements for each category are stated
below, and summarised in Appendix A.

3.1 Ocean-Going Salvage Tug (ST)

Vessels within this category are approvable for all towages within the limits of their
bollard pull in all geographical areas subject to Ice Classification.
3.1.1 Vessels shall be equipped with two (2) main towing wires and a spare towing wire,
all of which shall comply with the strength and length requirements of Section 5.1.
3.1.2 Vessels shall be adequately manned for towing operations in all geographical areas.
These vessels shall have a minimum complement of officers and crew and also have
the capability of accommodating increased manning levels where it is deemed
necessary for a specific towage. Refer to Section 9 and Appendix A.
3.1.3 Vessels shall be of such a design that they are capable of undertaking towages in all
geographical areas subject to their Ice Classification and Section 10.
3.1.4 Vessels shall have a minimum bunker capacity of at least 35 days consumption at
80% MCR.
3.1.5 Vessels shall be equipped with a workboat with sufficient power and capacity to
carry four (4) persons plus material/equipment to the casualty/tow.
3.1.6 Vessels shall be equipped with the additional equipment listed in Section 11.

3.2 Unrestricted Towages (U)

Vessels within this category are approvable for all towages within the limits of their
bollard pull in all geographical areas subject to Ice Classification.
3.2.1 Vessels shall be equipped with a main towing wire and a spare towing wire, both of
which shall comply with the strength and length requirements of Section 5.2.
3.2.2 Vessels shall be adequately manned for towage operations in all geographical areas.
These vessels shall have a minimum complement of officers and crew and also have
the capability of accommodating increased manning levels where it is deemed
necessary for a specific towage. Refer to Section 9 and Appendix A.
3.2.3 Vessels shall be of such a design that they are capable of undertaking towages in all
geographical areas subject to their Ice Classification and Section 10.
3.2.4 Vessels shall be equipped with a workboat with sufficient power and capacity to
carry four (4) persons plus material/equipment to the tow.

3.3 Restricted Towages (RI)

Vessels within this category are approvable for assisting with towages within the
limits of their bollard pull in all geographical areas subject to Ice Classification.
Refer to Section 3.6.

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3.3.1 Vessels shall be equipped with a minimum of one main towing wire which shall
comply with the strength and length requirements of Section 5.3.
3.3.2 Vessels in this category shall comply with the requirements for manning and
seakeeping as outlined in Sections 3.2.2, 3.2.3, 9 and 10.
3.3.3 If proposed as the lead or only tug for a particular towage, as may be allowed in
Section 3.6, vessels shall be equipped with a workboat with sufficient power and
capacity to carry four (4) persons plus material/equipment to the tow,.

3.4 Benign Area Towages (R2)

Vessels within this category are approvable for towages within the limits of their
bollard pull and the defined geographical limits of Benign Areas.
3.4.1 Vessels shall be equipped with a main towing wire and a spare towing wire, both of
which shall comply with the strength and length requirements of Section 5.4.
3.4.2 Vessels shall be adequately manned for towage operations within the geographical
limits of Benign Areas. These vessels shall have the capability of accommodating
increased manning levels where it is deemed necessary for a specific towage. Refer
to Section 9.
3.4.3 Vessels shall be of such a design that they are capable of undertaking towages within
the geographical limits of Benign Areas. Refer to Section 10.
3.4.4 If proposed as the lead or only tug for a particular towage, vessels shall be equipped
with a workboat with sufficient power and capacity to carry three (3) persons plus
material/equipment to the tow,.

3.5 Restricted Benign Area Towages (R3)

Vessels in this category are approvable for assisting with towages within the limits of
their bollard pull and the defined geographical limits of Benign Areas.
3.5.1 Vessels shall be equipped with a minimum of one main towing wire which shall
comply with the strength and length requirements of Sections 5.5.
3.5.2 Vessels shall comply with the requirements for manning and seakeeping as outlined
in Sections 3.4.2, 3.4.3, 9 and 10.

3.6 Limited Duration and Short Distance Towages

Noble Denton will not in normal circumstances approve single tug towages where
the tug is equipped with only one tow wire. However, vessels in category R1 may in
certain circumstances be approvable for single tug towages where the towage is in
sheltered waters or within the limits of a reliable weather forecast. Approval of a
vessel for this type of towage will be subject to a specific assessment.

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4 DOCUMENTATION

Prior to a survey of the vessel being carried out for entry into the Scheme, and in
order to assess the likelihood of successful entry, copies of the following documents
should be submitted to NDE for review.

4.1 General Specification

This should include, but is not limited to, general details of:
• Overall dimensions and tonnages
• Classification
• Propulsion equipment
• Speed, consumption and bunker capacity
• Towing and anchor-handling equipment
• Anchoring system
• Firefighting system
• Communications equipment
• Accommodation capacity and layout

4.2 General Arrangement Plans

These should show the overall arrangement of the vessel, and should be sufficiently
detailed to show the deck area including the towing, anchor handling and mooring
equipment.

4.3 Towing/Anchor-Handling Winches

Specifications of the towing/anchor-handling winch and its foundation.

4.4 Towing Equipment

Specifications of all towing equipment carried including bridles, chains, towing
wires, pennant wires, stretchers, towing shackles and connecting links.

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4.5 Certificates
Copies of the following valid documents shall be submitted to NDE, or made
available to the surveyor at time of survey:
• Certificate of registry
• International load line certificate
• Certificates of class for hull and machinery
• Cargo ship safety equipment certificate
• Cargo ship safety radio certificate
• Certificate of safe manning
• Certificates for all required bridles, chains, tow wires, pennants, stretchers,
and shackles and connecting links.
• Bollard Pull Certificate (see Section 2.1)
• Approved Stability Booklet.

4.6 Salvage Equipment

For the entry of Ocean-Going Salvage Tugs (ST) details of the salvage equipment
should be submitted. A list of the minimum requirements appears in Section 11.

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5 TOWING EQUIPMENT
5.1 Ocean-Going Salvage Tugs (ST)
5.1.1 Vessels shall be equipped with two (2) main towing wires on separate winch drums,
and one spare towing wire, each of adequate strength to satisfy the requirements of
Minimum Breaking Load (BL) as follows:
Bollard Pull (BP) Minimum Break Load (BL)
Up to 90 tonnes (3.8 - BP/50) x BP
Over 90 tonnes 2.0 x BP

5.1.2 The length (L) of both main wires and the spare towing wire shall be determined
from the formula:
L = (BP/BL) x 2000 METRES
except that in no case shall the length be less than 800 metres (see Section 5.6.4).
5.1.3 A towing log indicating service history, maintenance and inspections shall be kept
for each tow wire and each synthetic stretcher held on board the vessel.
5.1.4 Vessels shall be equipped with at least four (4) towing pennants of not less than the
required BL of the towing wire, and of the same lay.
5.1.5 If a surge chain is supplied then the minimum breaking load (BL) shall not be less
than that of the main towing wire. The surge chain shall be a continuous length of
welded studlink chain, having a length of not less than 27.5 metres, with an enlarged
open link at each end.
5.1.6 Vessels shall be provided with the components for one towing bridle, which may be
either all chain, or a combination of chain and wire. The strength of each bridle leg
shall be not less than the actual BL of the towing wire plus 40 tonnes.
5.1.7 Vessels shall be equipped with at least twelve (12) towing shackles in accordance
with the requirements of Section 5.6.13 or 5.6.14

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5.2 Unrestricted Towages (U)

5.2.1 Vessels shall be equipped with both a main and a spare towing wire, each of
adequate strength to satisfy the requirements of minimum breaking load (BL) as
follows:
Bollard Pull (BP) Minimum Break Load (BL)
Less than 40 tonnes 3.0 x BP
40 to 90 tonnes (3.8 - BP/50) x BP
Over 90 tonnes 2.0 x BP
5.2.2 The length (L) of both the main and spare towing wires shall be determined from the
formula:
L = (BP/BL) x 1800 METRES
except that in no case shall the length be less than 650 metres (see Section 5.6.4).

5.3 Restricted Towages (RI)

5.3.1 Vessels shall be equipped with one main towing wire of adequate strength to satisfy
the requirements of minimum BL as follows.
Bollard Pull (BP) Minimum Break Load (BL)
Less than 40 tonnes 3.0 x BP
40 to 90 tonnes (3.8 - BP/50) x BP
Over 90 tonnes 2.0 x BP

5.3.2 The length (L) of the towing wire shall be determined from the formula:
L = (BP/BL) x 1800 METRES
except that in no case shall the length be less than 650 metres (see also Section
5.6.4).

5.4 Benign Area Towages (R2)

5.4.1 Vessels shall be equipped with both a main and spare towing wire each of adequate
strength to satisfy the requirements of minimum BL as follows:
BL = 2.0 x BP
5.4.2 The length (L) of both the main and spare towing wires shall be determined from the
formula:
L = (BP/BL) x 1200 METRES
except that in no case shall the length be less than 500 metres (see also Section
5.6.4).

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5.5 Restricted Benign Area Towages (R3)

5.5.1 Vessels shall be equipped with a towing wire of adequate strength to satisfy the
requirements of minimum BL as follows:
BL = 2.0 x BP
5.5.2 The length (L) of the towing wire shall be determined from the formula:
L = (BP/BL) x 1200 METRES
except that in no case shall the length be less than 500 metres (see also Section
5.6.4).

5.6 All Entered Vessels

5.6.1 All towing wires shall have hard eyes formed by a heavy-duty gussetted thimble or a
closed spelter socket fitted at the outer end.
5.6.2 The main towing wire(s) should be spooled onto the towing winch drum(s) using
adequate tension. The end of the wire must be adequately secured to the winch
drum.
5.6.3 Where a spare towing wire is carried, it shall be stowed on a winch drum, or reverse
stowed on a reel. Where the spare wire is stowed on a reel, it shall be accessible
even in heavy weather, and be in such a position as to ensure that transfer to the main
towing drum can be achieved safely and efficiently.
5.6.4 Where a reduced towline length demands a higher break load (BL) in order to satisfy
the towline length formula, then this increased BL shall be the required BL when
determining the strength of the other components in the towing arrangement.
5.6.5 Vessels shall be equipped with at least 2 (4 for category ST) towing pennants of not
less than the required breaking load of the main towing wire.
5.6.6 Pennants shall be of the same lay as the towing wire.
5.6.7 Pennants shall have hard eyes formed by a heavy-duty gussetted thimble or a spelter
socket at each end.
5.6.8 If a soft-eyed pennant is carried, then such pennant shall be additional to the other
requirements of this Section.
5.6.9 The towing pennants shall have a length appropriate to their intended service.
5.6.10 If synthetic stretchers are used, at least 2 shall be carried. For benign areas, one (1)
synthetic stretcher may be acceptable.

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5.6.11 If synthetic stretchers are used, the pennants should be in a sound condition and the
minimum breaking load should not be less than:
- 2.0 times the required towline BL, for tugs with bollard pull less than 40
tonnes.
- 1.5 times the required towline BL, for tugs with bollard pull greater than 90
tonnes.
- linearly interpolated between 1.5 and 2.0 times the required towline BL for tugs
with bollard pull between 40 tonnes and 90 tonnes.
When determining the required towline breakload the comments in Section 5.6.4.
shall be taken into account.
5.6.12 The synthetic stretchers shall have a heavy-duty gussetted thimble at each end and be
adequately protected against chafe.
5.6.13 Vessels shall be equipped with at least 6 (12 for category ST) towing shackles or
approved connecting links.
5.6.14 The required capacity of towing shackles or connecting links shall be determined
from the Certified Breaking Load (BL) or the Certified Safe Working Load (SWL).
If the BL of a shackle is known, then the BL shall not be less than 110% of the
required BL of the towing wire.
5.6.15 Where the BL of the shackle cannot be determined, but is of high-quality and from a
reputable manufacturer, with a stated ratio of BL/SWL of not less than 4, then the
following may be used:
Bollard Pull (BP) Safe Working Load (SWL)
(tonnes) (tonnes)
Less than 40 1.0 x BP
40 or more (0.5 x BP) + 20

except that the comments contained in Section 5.6.4 shall be taken into account as
appropriate, and the shackle SWL be increased in proportion.

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6 TOWING WINCH

Vessels in all categories shall be provided with at least one towing winch, (for
category ST two towing winch drums).
6.1 The towing winch and its connection to the vessel shall be strong enough to
withstand a force equal to the breaking load of the tow wire acting at its maximum
height above deck, without over-stressing.
6.2 If the power for the towing winch is supplied via a main engine shaft generator
during normal operating conditions, then another generator shall be available to
provide power for the towing winch in case of main engine or generator failure.
6.3 If a multi-drum winch is used, then each winch drum shall be capable of independent
operation.
6.4 The towing winch drum(s) shall have sufficient capacity to stow the required
minimum length of the tow wire(s).
6.5 A spooling device shall be provided such that the tow wire(s) is effectively spooled
on to the winch drum(s).
6.6 The towing winch brake shall be capable of preventing the towing wire from paying
out when the vessel is towing at its maximum continuous static bollard pull and shall
not release automatically in case of a power failure.
6.7 The winch shall be fitted with a mechanism for emergency release of the tow wire.
6.8 There shall be an adequate means of communication between the winch control
station(s) and the engine control station(s) and the bridge.

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7 TOWING WIRE PROTECTION AND CONTROL

7.1 Protectors
7.1.1 Sufficient towing wire protectors shall be provided to prevent the towing wire from
being damaged by abrasion and chafe against tow bars, cargo protection rails,
bulwarks, stern rail, tail gate or stern roller.
7.1.2 If a “fixed” gogwire system or towing pod is used, then whenever possible, towing
wire protectors should also be provided for the towing wire at the gogwire shackle or
towing pod.

7.2 Tow Bars, Cargo Protection Rail, Bulwarks, Stern Rail, Tailgate and Stern
Roller
7.2.1 The top of the tow bars, cargo protection rail, bulwarks, stern rail, tail gate and stern
roller shall be free of sharp edges, corners or obstructions which could damage the
towing wire or prevent it from free lateral movement.
7.2.2 Where, during normal towing conditions, the towing wire bears on tow bars, cargo
protection rail, bulwarks, stern rail or tailgate, the radius of bend shall be at least ten
(10) times the diameter of the towing wire.

7.3 Adjustable Gogwire System

7.3.1 Preference shall be given to the use of an adjustable gogwire system.
7.3.2 The winch or capstan used to adjust the gogwire system shall be controlled from a
safe location.

7.4 Fixed Gogwire System

7.4.1 If a single wire or single chain gogwire system is used, then the connection point on
the aft deck shall be on the centreline of the vessel.
7.4.2 The length of the single wire or single chain of the gogwire system shall not exceed
half the distance between the cargo protection rails or bulwarks, whichever is less.
7.4.3 Either a “wide body” sling shackle, having an enlarged bearing surface at the bow, or
a purpose-designed sheave, shall be used to connect the gogwire system to the
towing wire.

7.5 Towing Pod

7.5.1 The centre line of the towing pod shall be in line with the centre line of the towing
wire winch drum.
7.5.2 The towing pod shall be well faired and have a bend radius of at least ten (10) times
the diameter of the towing wire.

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8 STABILITY

8.1 The stability of the vessel shall never be less than that required by the ”Guidelines
for the Design and Construction of Offshore Supply Vessels” (Resolution A.469
[XII] adopted by the International Maritime Organisation 1981) and the Merchant
Shipping (Load Line) Rules 1966, S.I. 1053.

9 MANNING AND ACCOMMODATION

9.1 Vessels in all categories shall be manned to meet the minimum requirements laid
down by Statutory Regulations.
9.2 Manning levels for vessels in all categories will be subject to the requirements of a
specific towage.
9.3 Where vessels are required to undertake long duration towages, difficult towages or
where the tow is unmanned, they shall have adequate certified accommodation to
enable manning levels to be increased. Any increase in manning levels will be
subject to the limitations of the regulations relating to life-saving appliances.
9.4 In general, to satisfy category ST, certified accommodation and life-saving
appliances shall be provided for a minimum of twelve (12) persons.
9.5 Vessels in category ST shall, when engaged in towing operations, carry a minimum
of five (5) certificated officers. These would normally be the Master, two (2) Deck
Officers and two (2) Engineer Officers.
9.6 In general, to satisfy categories U and R1, certified accommodation and life-saving
appliances shall be provided for a minimum of eight (8) persons.
9.7 Vessels in categories U and R1 shall, when engaged in towing operations, carry a
minimum of four (4) certificated officers. These would normally be the Master, one
(1) Deck Officer and two (2) Engineer Officers.
9.8 Vessels in categories R2 and R3 shall, when engaged in towing operations, carry a
minimum of three (3) certificated officers. These would normally be the Master, one
(1) Deck Officer and one (1) Engineer Officer.

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10 SEAKEEPING

10.1 Vessels in all categories shall be of such a design to allow them to operate safely and
effectively in their designated areas.
10.2 Vessels in all categories must be purpose-built for towing operations or be of a multi-
purpose design having towing capability.
10.3 Vessels must be assigned an appropriate Classification by a recognised Classification
Society.
10.4 The length and normal operating draft of the vessel shall be adequate to maintain
propeller effectiveness and reduce slamming in heavy weather conditions.
10.4.1 For vessels in category ST, the ratio of Loadline draft (D) to length between
perpendiculars (LBP) shall comply with the formula:
D/LBP > 0.080
10.4.2 For vessels in categories U and R1, the ratio of Loadline draft (D) to length between
perpendiculars (LBP) shall comply with the formula:
D/LBP > 0.060
10.4.3 For vessels in categories R2 and R3, the ratio of Loadline draft (D) to length between
perpendiculars (LBP) shall comply with the formula:
D/LBP > 0.045
10.5 Vessels in category ST shall have a raised forecastle.
10.6 Vessels in categories U and R1 shall have a raised forecastle or have sufficient deck
sheer and flare of the bow to minimise water on deck during heavy weather. The
forecastle shall be of such a design to ensure minimum water retention.

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11 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR SALVAGE TUGS (ST)

All vessels in category ST shall carry the following equipment:
Lifting Equipment
A deck crane or derrick with a minimum capacity of two (2) tonnes for transferring
equipment.
Pumps
Portable salvage pumps with ample supply of hoses.
Generators
Portable generator or facilities and cabling to allow power to be distributed to the
casualty/tow from the tug.
Air Compressor
Portable air compressor suitable for salvage purposes with ample supply of hoses or
facility to allow compressed air to be distributed to the casualty/tow.
Welding/Cutting
Portable welding and cutting equipment with ample supply of extension cables,
hoses and consumables.
Damage Control
Assorted steel plate, timber, canvas, cement, sand, tools, etc. for damage control
purposes.
Spare Parts
A comprehensive inventory of spare parts for the vessel to allow repairs to be carried
out during long voyages.

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APPENDICES

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APPENDIX
A

SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS

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A.1 Summary of Requirements

The following table provides a summary of the requirements contained in this
Guideline for each Category of vessel. Use of the table should be made together
with reference to the appropriate text in the Guideline.

Category ST U R1 R2 R3
General design and range
Raised fo’c’sle Yes Yes, or sheer/ Yes or sheer/ - -
flare flare
Minimum D:LBP ratio 0.08 0.06 0.06 0.045 0.045
Bunker capacity 35 days at 80% - - - -
power
Certificates/documentation
Registry Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Loadline Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Class, hull Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Safety equipment Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Safety radio Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
All towing equipment Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Bollard Pull Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Towing wire log Yes - - - -
Towage and salvage equipment
Towing winch Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Number of winch drums 2 1 1 1 1
Number of main tow 2 1 1 1 1
wires
Number of spare tow 1 1 - 1 -
wires
Minimum towline BL, 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP
tonnes (BP> 90 t)
Minimum towline BL, (3.8-BP/50)xBP (3.8-BP/50)xBP (3.8-BP/50)xBP 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP
tonnes (40<BP< 90 t)
Minimum towline BL, (3.8-BP/50)xBP 3.0 x BP 3.0 x BP 2.0 x BP 2.0 x BP
tonnes (BP<40 t)
Towline length, metres (BP/BL) x 2000 (BP/BL) x 1800 (BP/BL) x 1800 (BP/BL) x 1200 (BP/BL) x 1200
Minimum towline length 800 metres 650 metres 650 metres 500 metres 500 metres
Towing pennants 4 2 2 2 2
Shackles/Conn Links 12 6 6 6 6
Surge chain Optional - - - -
Towing bridle 1 - - - -
Salvage equipment Yes - - - -
Work boat Yes Yes Yes* Yes* -
Crane/derrick 2 tonnes - - - -
Pumps Yes - - - -
Compressor Yes - - - -
Welding equipment Yes - - - -
Damage control Yes - - - -
Spares Yes - - - -
Manning and accommodation
Accommodation 12 8 8 - -
LSA 12 8 8 - -
Number of certificated 5 4 4 3 3
officers

* A workboat is required for Categories R1 and R2 if the vessel is proposed as the

lead tug or only tug for a particular towage.

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APPENDIX
B

BOLLARD PULL TESTS

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B. BOLLARD PULL TESTS

B.1 General
B.1.1 The following guidance notes apply to the bollard pull test of any towing vessel
which Noble Denton is requested to approve or attend.
B.1.2 The safe working load of the test equipment, fittings and any connection points
ashore shall be at least 10% in excess of the designed maximum continuous static
bollard pull of the vessel.

B.2 Location
B.2.1 The water depth at the test location shall be at least 20 metres within a radius of 100
metres of the vessel.
B.2.2 If a water depth of 20 metres cannot be obtained at the test location, then a minimum
water depth which is equal to twice the maximum draft of the vessel may be
accepted. The owner of the vessel must be advised that the reduced water depth may
adversely affect the test results.
B.2.3 The test location shall be clear of navigational hazards and underwater obstructions
within a radius of 300 metres of the vessel.
B.2.4 The current shall be less than 0.5 metres/second from any direction.
B.2.5 The wind speed shall be less than 5 metres/second from any direction.
B.2.6 The condition of the sea at the test location shall be calm, without swell or waves.

B.3 Vessel
B.3.1 The draft and trim of the vessel shall be as near as possible to the draft and trim
under normal operating conditions.
B.3.2 The propellers and fuel used during the tests shall be the same as the propellers and
fuel used under normal operating conditions.
B.3.3 All auxiliary equipment such as pumps, generators and other equipment which are
driven from the main engine(s) or propeller shaft(s) during normal operation of the
vessel shall be connected during the test.

B.4 Test
B.4.1 The distance between the stern of the vessel and the shore shall be at least 300
metres.
B.4.2 If it is not possible to maintain a distance of 300 metres between the stern of the
vessel and the shore, then a minimum distance which is equal to twice the waterline
length of the vessel may be accepted. The owner of the vessel must be advised that
the reduced distance between the vessel’s stern and the shore may adversely affect
the test results.
B.4.3 Adequate communications shall be established between the vessel and instrument
recording station.

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B.4.4 The continuous bollard pull (CBP) test shall be carried out at the manufacturer’s
recommended maximum continuous rating of the main engines (100% MCR), for a
period of 10 minutes with the vessel on a steady heading.
B.4.5 Whenever possible a maximum (MBP) test shall be carried out at the manufacturer’s
maximum rating of the main engines (110% MCR), for a period of 5 minutes.
B.4.6 When requested, continuous bollard pull may also be verified at different RPM
and/or propeller pitch settings or with fewer propellers or engines in use.
B.4.7 The load cell used for measuring the bollard pull shall have an accuracy of ±2% for
the average temperature observed during the test and shall have been calibrated not
more than six (6) months prior to the test date. The calibration certificate shall be
available.
B.4.8 An autographic recording instrument giving a continuous read-out of the bollard pull
shall be connected to the load cell.
B.4.9 If no continuous record of the test is printed, then the bollard pull shall be the mean
of consecutive readings recorded at half-minute intervals over the test period.

B.5 Bollard Pull Tests by Classification Societies

Bollard pull test certificates issued by a Classification Society are acceptable,
provided an acceptable procedure for test is produced.

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APPENDIX
C

TOWING EQUIPMENT TESTS

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C. TOWING EQUIPMENT TESTS

C.1 General
C.1.1 The following guidance notes apply to the towing equipment tests of any vessel
which Noble Denton is requested to approve or attend.
C.1.2 Before carrying out any tests, it shall be ascertained that the equipment to be tested
has been installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and can be
operated safely.
C.1.3 The wire used during the winch tests shall be equal to the towing wire in breaking
load, diameter and construction and shall be spooled onto the towing winch drum
with a tension of 25% of the vessel’s CBP or 40 tonnes, whichever is less.
C.1.4 During stalling, brake and quick release tests, the wire shall be kept as near as
possible to the centre line of the vessel.
C.1.5 The safe working load of the test equipment, fittings and any connection points
ashore shall be at least ten (10) percent in excess of the designed maximum static
bollard pull of the vessel.

C.2 Winch Tests

C.2.1 Stalling Test
First Test: To be carried out with a full drum.
Second Test: To be carried out with a drum diameter which is estimated to
stall the winch at CBP.
The winch shall be heaving in wire while the engine revolution or propeller pitch is
gradually increased.
When the winch stalls, the following shall be recorded:
a. Bollard Pull
b. Effective Drum Diameter
C.2.2 Brake Test
The test shall be carried out with a full drum of wire.
A wire of approximately 300 metres shall be connected to the winch wire if required.
The brake shall be applied at maximum holding capacity.
The engine revolutions or propeller pitch shall be gradually increased until CBP is
achieved.
The following shall be recorded:
c. Bollard Pull
d. Brake Pressure

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C.2.3 Quick Release Test

The quick release tests shall be carried out when the vessel is towing at
approximately 30% of its CBP.
First Test: When heaving in the test wire.
Second Test: When the brake is engaged.
C.2.4 Spooling Gear Test (if fitted)
The spooling gear shall be engaged when tested.
The engine power or propeller pitch shall be gradually increased to CBP.
The test wire shall be at an angle of approximately 60° on each side of the vessel’s
centre line.
The duration of the test shall be not less than one (1) minute.

C.3 Fixed Gogwire System, Towing Pod, Line Stops and Guide Pins
Tests
The spooling gear, if fitted, shall be disengaged during the “fixed” gogwire system,
towing pod, line stops and guide pin tests.
The engine power or propeller pitch shall be gradually increased to the CBP.
The test wire shall be at an angle of approximately 60° on each side of the vessel’s
centre line.
The duration of each test shall not be less than one (1) minute.

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