The Coast Guard Office of Investigations and Analysis has released Marine Safety Alert 04-23 to highlight the importance of proper maintenance and adherence to manufacturer’s recommendations for filling/inflating buoyancy chambers on some models of inflatable boats.
Source: USCG
Link: Marine Safety Alert: Inflatable boat safety: Do not over pressurize
The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing has published CG-MMC Policy Letter 01-23 titled Qualification for National Endorsements as Tankerman-Assistant and STCW Endorsements for Basic Tanker Operations.
Source: USCG
Link: Guidance on qualification for national endorsements as Tankerman-Assistant and STCW endorsements for Basic Tanker Operations
The Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG) has created a centralized email address, CGENG@uscg.mil, which acts as a “switchboard,” and forwards any inquiries or requests to the appropriate CG-ENG member(s) or division(s).
Source: USCG
Link: Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG) creates centralized email address
The Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance has provided a post for owners or managing operators of a towing vessel that makes up an Articulated Tug-Barge (ATB) who may be affected by National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2023 (H.R. 7776) – SEC. 11508: ATB Manning.
Source: USCG
Link: National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2023 (H.R. 7776) – SEC. 11508: ATB Manning
The Coast Guard announces the publication of the Vessel Traffic Services National Standards of Operating Commandant Instruction (COMDTINST) 16630.3B. This instruction replaces the Vessel Traffic Services National Standards of Operating Procedures COMDTINST M16630.3A. This instruction provides programmatic guidance to all Coast Guard Sectors and Vessel Traffic Services.
Source: USCG
Link: Federal Register Notice: Notice of Publication of Vessel Traffic Services National Standards for Operating COMDTINST 16630.3B
On December 23, 2022, the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (H.R.
7776) was signed into law, which includes section 11804(c) that delays implementation of Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Reader Requirements for covered facilities until at least May 8, 2026.
Source: USCG
Link: MSIB: Transportation Worker Identification Credential(TWIC) reader rule delayed
The Coast Guard Office of Investigations and Analysis has released Marine Safety Alert 03-23 to remind marine radio users of the importance and value of properly configuring their Digital Selective Calling (DSC)-equipped Very High Frequency (VHF) radios to enable proper function during an emergency situation.
Source: USCG
Link: Marine Safety Alert: Ensuring proper configuration of digital selective calling (DSC)-equipped radios
The Coast Guard Inspections and Compliance Directorate has released Marine Safety Alert 02-23, to advise mariners to keep their contact information up to date with both TSA and the Coast Guard National Maritime Center (NMC) to assist in the timely resolution of TWIC eligibility issues should they arise.
Source: USCG
Link: MSIB: Updating contact information for TWIC and MMC eligibility determinations
This Safety Alert addresses the importance of installing noncombustible materials in machinery space boundaries with dry exhaust systems.
Source: USCG
Link: Marine Safety Alert: Engine room exhaust hazards on fishing vessels
In response to an unprecedented coral disease outbreak called stony coral tissue loss disease, the Coast Guard is urging vessel owners and operators to familiarize themselves with existing ballast water requirements
Source: USCG
Link: Mariners’ have a role in reducing the risk of lethal coral disease spread