The following is the text of a news release from the American Waterways Operators (AWO):
(WASHINGTON) — On Nov. 21 the U.S. Coast Guard formally accepted the AWO Responsible Carrier Program as an existing safety management system that complies with the requirements of Subchapter M. In a letter conveying the acceptance, Read Adm. Paul Thomas, assistant commandant for prevention policy, wrote, “This is a significant milestone in the implementation of Subchapter M and … your staff and your members are to be commended on this remarkable achievement. This is an important first step in instilling a culture of safety across the towing industry.”
Thomas’ letter confirms that, “With confirmation of full compliance with the RCP and of the requirements in Part 138.225 by a third party organization (TPO), the TPO may issue a member company a TSMS certificate.” AWO will be meeting with the Coast Guard’s Subchapter M Implementation Team in December to discuss transition issues and facilitate members’ use of the RCP as a vehicle for compliance with the TSMS option under Subchapter M.
