OHIO

A towing vessel must carry adequate and up-to-date charts, maps and nautical publications for the intended voyage. The paper charts do not reflect the current changes published in the Local Notice to Mariners, and the Electronic Chart program has not uploaded any updates since it was installed according to the crew. Corrections shall be updated on the paper and electronic charts, to reflect current changes.

Each towing vessel must have a fire-detection system installed to detect engine room fires. The owner or managing operator must ensure the system is installed, tested, and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's design manual. The crew was unable to demonstrate satisfactory testing of the system or show record of testing. Must provide documentation that the system was reviewed and certified in accordance with 46 CFR 146.330(a)(7) and prove that proper testing is being conducted to the satisfaction of class or CG prior to movement.

The owner or managing operator of an existing vessel not operating under a stability document must be able to show at least one of the following: (1) The vessel's operation or a history of satisfactory service does not cause the stability of the vessel to be questioned by either the Coast Guard or a TPO engaged to perform an audit or survey. The vessel was issued an initial COI without a stability letter based on satisfactory historical record of stability but current practice brings the vessel's stability into question and places the vessel in danger. CG Marine Inspectors found that the company is using an aft compartment that was not designed or intended to hold ballast water. When asked why the water was there, the crew said "For stability". As the water moves within this space, the resulting free surface effect causes an unacceptable condition of instability. The compartments must be pumped dry and remain as such during operations.

Each towing vessel must have a means to monitor and control the amount of thrust, rudder angle, and (if applicable) direction of thrust, at each operating station. Towing vessel experienced a loss of steering during a mooring evolution. Vessel is to make permanent repairs to the steering system prior to conducting towing operations to the satisfaction of their TPO, ABS.

Machinery and electrical systems must be designed and maintained to provide for safe operation of the towing vessel and safety of persons onboard under normal and emergency conditions. The towing vessel experienced a failure within the electrical system which has rendered the steering system (non follow-up) inoperable. Steering system is not operating as designed; vessel is to make permanent repairs prior to the carriage of cargo.

Vessel lost its starboard engine and generator due to loss fuel oil.