Working with Tugs Training Course

Working with tugs – A quick guide for the ship’s crew

Making fast

• All crew to wear full protective clothing

• No rings, bracelets or anything which might catch to be worn
• Crew to be properly briefed and clear signals agreed
• Establish clear communications
• Area to be clear of slip and trip hazards
• Ensure all equipment is in good order
• Throw heaving lines into clear area, not directly at tug-crew

Under tow

• Do not stand in bights of ropes

• Stand away from tow rope in place of safety
• Use panama leads in preference to roller leads
• Supervisor to keep tug in sight but move clear at first sign of tow rope stress
• Keep decks clear and never allow ropes to tangle

Letting go

• Be aware that the tow may release without warning

• Release tow only after the weight has been eased and when ordered to do so
• Tow line must always be released in a controlled way by means of a messenger line
• Ensure that messenger line has adequate turns on the down end to control it
• One crew member guides tail of messenger, remainder stand clear

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