Anchoring, mooring and towing for barges

(1) Every barge shall be equipped with at least a suitable anchor for holding the barge in an emergency to the satisfaction of the Administration. It shall be securely attached to a cable or wire rope and arranged for release in emergency conditions either by persons on the barge or boarding the barge for such purpose. At least a windlass or winch shall be provided as appropriate to assist persons carrying out such operation. Suitable boarding facilities shall be provided for personnel from the towing tug to board the barge in an emergency. (2) The towing and mooring arrangements and procedures shall be such as to reduce to a minimum any danger to personnel during towing or mooring operations. Such arrangements shall be of adequate strength and suitable for the particular type of (3) The design and arrangement of towing and mooring fittings or equipment of barges shall take into account both normal and emergency conditions. (4) Sufficient spare equipment to completely remake the towing and mooring arrangements of barges shall be available. (5) Secondary or emergency towing arrangements shall be fitted on board the barge so as to be easily recoverable by the Merchant Ships (Registration) 132 towing tug in the event of parting of the main towing wire or failure of ancillary equipment. (6) In addition to the provisions of this regulation, barges shall comply with the applicable requirements of the safety of towed ships and other floating objects recommended by the International Maritime Organisation.