HIAWATHA

Electrical connections must be suitably installed to prevent them from coming loose through vibration or accidental contact. Marine Inspector observed screw on type wire connectors installed on both generator fuel system wiring components. Owner/operator replaced connectors with on-hand replacements meeting the requirement stated above. 46CFR143.400(e) 10c.

When operating a vessel on a body of water where the discharge of treated or untreated sewage is prohibited by the Environmental Protection Agency under 40 CFR 140.3 or 140.4, the operator must secure each Type I or Type II device in a manner which prevents discharge of treated or untreated sewage. Marine Inspector identified no means of securing the MSD to prevent discharge of untreated sewage. Owner/operator stated intentions of leaving a locking device in the vicinity of the discharge valve to comply with above stated regulation. Documentation (photo) to be provided to the satisfaction of the attending Marine Inspector of the execution of intent regarding locking device. 33CFR159.7(b) 50c.

Any piping system that penetrates the hull below the waterline must be fitted with an accessible valve, located as close to the hull penetration as is practicable, for preventing the accidental admission of water into the vessel either through such pipes or in the event of a fracture of such pipe. The valve must be clearly marked by labeling or color coding that enables the crew to identify its function. Marine Inspector identified both port and starboard main propulsion engine keel cooler thru hull piping lacked required valves. Owner/operator to modify piping system to comply with stated regulation. 46CFR143.250(d) 50c.

Portable and semi-portable fire extinguishers must be inspected, maintained, and tested in accordance with the inspection, maintenance procedures, and hydrostatic pressure tests required by Chapters 7 and 8 of NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers (incorporated by reference, see § 136.112 of this subchapter), with the frequency specified by NFPA 10 and as amended here. MI noted monthly inspection and documentation of portable fire extinguishers was not completed. Owner/operator is required to fulfill the requirements of NFPA 10, chapter 7 and provide documentation to the attending Marine Inspector as proof of completion. 46CFR142.240(a)(1)(ii) 50c.

The master of a towing vessel must ensure that each crewmember participates in fire-fighting drills and receives instruction at least once each month. Vessel only performs one fire drill per month and could not provide evidence for a fire drill conducted in August. Provide a Corrective action plan to ensure that all crew members participate in a fire drill each month.

Pressure vessels over 5 Cubic feet in volume and over 15 PSI MAWP must be equipped with an indicating pressure gauge and with one or more spring loaded relief valves. The total relieving capactiy of such relief valves must prevent pressure from exceeding the MAWP as established by the manufacturer, by more than 10 percent. Pressure relieve valves were 200 MAWP and gauge had a max pressure of 160. Replace relieve valves with a valve that relieves before the MAWP and replace the gauge with one that reads a full range exceeding the MAWP of the tank.

Electrical systems and equipment must function properly and minimize system failures and fire and shock hazards... Electrical connections must be suitably installed to prevent them from coming lose through vibration or accidental contact. Vessel had open wiring under the wheel house, MSD was not permanently wired and had two plugs hanging from the ceiling, and battery boxes were not secured and missing a lid.

Prior to getting underway for the first time on a particular towing vessel, each crewmember must receive a safety orientation. Vessels deck hand had not received vessel orientation and was on the second hitch. First hitch was cut short at 7 days.

Machinery and electrical system must be designed and maintained to provide for safe operation of the towing vessel and safety of persons onboard under normal and emergency conditions. Fire main system was spraying water when the fire pump was energized. Repair fire main within 7 days to the satisfaction of the marine surveyor.

Individuals, who are not crew members, on board a towing vessel must receive a safety orientation prior to getting underway or as soon as practicable thereafter to include: Emergency procedures. Deck hand did not give an adequate orientation and was unsure of where the muster or assembly point was located. The master was questioned and had a different location than the deck hand. Provide a corrective action plan with training provided to all crew members on board within 14 days.

Masters responsibilities. The master of a towing vessel must ensure that drills are conducted and instructions are given to ensure that all crew members are capable of performing the duties expected of them during emergencies. Master performed the fire drill and did not preform the drill in a realistic manner. Failed to make notifications and other parts of the vessels procedures. Provide a corrective action plan along with training for all licensed mariners on proper procedures on running a drill.

Personnel dispatched from the vessel or that are working in an area on the exterior of the vessel without rail must wear a life jacket or a work vest approved by the commandant. When worn at night, the work vest must be equipped with a light that meets the requirements of 46 CFR 141.340(g)(1).