Towing and pushing tugs

(1) The design of the towing gear shall be such as to minimize the overturning moment due to the lead of the towline. It shall have a positive means of quick release which can be relied upon to function correctly under all operating conditions. Merchant Ships (Registration) 131 (2) Where a towing hook is provided, the release mechanism shall be controlled as far as practicable from the navigation bridge, the after-control position (where fitted), and at the hook itself. (3) When a pushing tug and a barge pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit, the tug-barge coupling system shall be capable of being made without causing damage to the tug or the barge. (4) Every tug shall be provided with at least one axe of sufficient size on each side which shall be readily available for cutting the towline free in the event of an emergency.