VERA BISSO

Each towing vessel must have a reliable means to provide notification via a Low hydraulic steering fluid alarm. The alarm worked when manually activated, but the piping from the tank was mot installed. Install piping and open the valve leading to the alarm.

Each towing vessel must be equipped with gauges at the machinery location for Main engine cooling water temperature. Both Main engines gauges were INOP.

Electrical components that pose an electrical hazard must be in an enclosure. The forward port engine room bulkhead wiring to the electrical outlet was not in a junction box. The wire should be secured or removed.

An existing vessel may be deemed by the OCMI to be in compliance with this subpart provided that either: (b) The vessel has both been in satisfactory service insofar as structural adequacy is concerned and does not cause the structure of the vessel to be questioned by the OCMI. The VERA BISSO was involved in a marine casualty on 21JUL2024 and received damage to the bulwark, stiffeners/brackets, and 42inx42in deck area on the starboard aft quarter, and two starboard transverse frames inside the steering space as a result. Permanent repairs to be made to the satisfaction of an attending Marine Inspector. The vessel is authorized a one-time transit to LMR MM106 repair yard as identified by O/O.

A towing vessel 26 feet or more in length and more than 600 horsepower, engaged in commercial service must have on board a properly installed, operational Coast Guard type-approved AIS Class A Device. The vessel's AIS is reported to not be functional. Vessels is restricted to operate only within their operating zone of 3-4 miles of MM229.3. The VERA BISSO must communicate with VTS prior to making any vessel movements and make aware their intentions to any passing vessels.

Each towing vessel must have an alarm for low level in the fuel day tanks. Install low level alarms on fuel day tanks during next scheduled drydock.

Electrical systems must minimize shock hazards. Install missing covers over open blanks in wheelhouse breaker panel.

Each ship subject to the Bridge-to-Bridge Act must have on board a radio operator who holds a restricted radio-telephone operator permit or higher class license. Master must obtain license as stated above.