Foss tug first in San Francisco to get COI under Subchapter M

Arvsgipdq2pwyfmhbmx6gbzry3iikcauasfwkzmvjsn9x6k4b8sdgvxd6rp Hl93n7orewzuwhisi5psfduamzmpt6ky3wxdxiox5zeeqvqdt4g1fdt4zzdg7eygs0 D E1 Ft

The following is text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:

(SAN FRANCISCO) — The Coast Guard issued the first certificate of inspection (COI) in accordance with a new federal regulation in the San Francisco Bay Area on Friday in Richmond. 

The regulation, known as Subchapter M in Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations, establishes safety rules governing the inspection, standards and safety management systems on towing vessels. The rule is intended to reduce the risk of potential deaths, injuries, casualties, groundings, collisions and oil spills associated with towing vessel operations. 

"This is the result of years of work at Sector San Francisco and the 11th District," said Bob Blomerth, 11th District towing vessel safety program coordinator. "This is a watershed moment in marine safety for the Coast Guard and our industry partners."

Capt. Tony Ceraolo, the Coast Guard Sector San Francisco commander and captain of the port for San Francisco and Northern California, joined inspectors and Foss Maritime officials at the Foss Terminal to mark the historic first COI to be issued in the area. The COI was issued for the towing vessel America, which passed inspection. 

"This is a historic day for maritime safety," said Ceraolo. "These measures ensure the safe operation of tugs and towing vessels around the bay and Northern California, ultimately reducing the potential for injury, mishaps and environmental impacts. Our priority is the safety of everyone operating on these vessels and other mariners who share the bay with them."

Subchapter M resources, checklists, job aids and more can be found on the Towing Vessel National Center of Expertise’s website here

By Professional Mariner Staff