USCG issues Safety Alert on Barge Fleet Lighting
The USCG has issued Marine Safety Alert regarding barge fleet lighting to remind barge operators of their obligation to meet relevant regulations. Over the past 12 year, 44 recreational vessels have struck (allided) moored barges within barge fleets, resulting in 26 fatalities and 44 injuries.
These serious incidents involving barges highlight thecritical need for barge operators to properly displaynavigation lights in accordance with the Inland NavigationRules. As with all marine casualty investigations, the CoastGuard seeks to identify the specific causal factors involvedin each incident, including whether the involved bargefleets are sufficiently lit.These tragic casualties are a strong warningto recreational boaters of the dangers associated withoperating near and around barge fleets.
The Coast Guard urges owners and operators of barge fleets to complete the following actions: Review fleet lighting procedures to ensure that barges are sufficiently lit and operated inaccordance with the Inland Navigation Rules1, including technical requirements as prescribedin Annex I, as well as any applicable area-specific regulations in 33 CFR Parts 162 and 165. 2 Ensure that barge fleets remain in compliance with permits issued by U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers pursuant to 33 CFR Parts 320 through 332, and/or regional issuing authorities. |
The Coast Guard also strongly recommends that owners and operators of all vessels, includingrecreational vessels, remain extra vigilant when operating boats during nighttime hours, times ofreduced visibility, or when strong currents exist and when other navigational challenges posed bybarge fleets are present.
Source & Image Credit: USCG