U.S. COAST GUARD PROPOSES NEW CARGO SECURING STANDARDS

U.S. COAST GUARD PROPOSES NEW CARGO SECURING STANDARDS    The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed new cargo securing standards for U.S.- and foreign-flag ships to parallel new requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
   Under SOLAS, all-cargo ships in the international trade and equipped with cargo securing systems must have a Flag State approved Cargo Securing Manual. The manuals must provide up-to-date information and guidance to assist a vessel’s master and crew regarding the proper use of equipment available to adequately stow and secure the vessel’s cargo.
   Comments are due at the Coast Guard’s Docket Management Facility by March 1.
   For additional information, contact Bob Gavin, Project Manager, Office of Operating and Environmental Standards, at (202) 267-1053.