Commitment to Safety

What Others Are Saying About AWO's Responsible Carrier Program

The following are excerpts from letters sent to AWO regarding the AWO membership's April, 1998 vote to require a commitment to the Responsible Carrier Program as a condition of membership in the association:

"Congratulations on the high level of regulatory compliance achieved by AWO members. The Responsible Carrier Program is a testament to the effectiveness of a voluntary quality program. Your members' willingness to establish safety standards beyond those minimum requirements found in the regulations demonstrates a clear interest in improving industry and environmental safety. The success of the Responsible Carrier Program should encourage quality initiatives in other areas of the marine industry. I am greatly encouraged by the progress the program has made in a short period of time and look forward to maintaining a good relationship between the Department of Transportation and the AWO."

Mortimer L. Downey Deputy
Secretary of Transportation

"I applaud AWO's responsible effort to improve towboat safety and reduce pollution. The Responsible Carrier Program is an outstanding example of an industry initiative that serves to protect both the safety of your workforce as well as the environment in which you must operate."

Admiral James Loy
U.S. Coast Guard Commandant

"This sounds like a great program that has the potential to improve the reputations of both the carriers and their customers. API wishes you great further success with the program."

Red Cavaney
President & CEO
American Petroleum Institute

"When AWO initiated the Responsible Carrier Program (RCP) four years ago, it identified itself as an organization that is committed to safety and environmental protection. For you to now require audited participation in the RCP as a condition of AWO membership shows an impressive organizational will, a resounding acknowledgment that the primary responsibility for ensuring safety lies with the industry itself, and a clear demonstration of AWO's commitment to safety."

Rear Admiral Robert C. North
U.S. Coast Guard
Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety and
Environmental Protection

"I was happy to hear about your Responsible Carrier Program. This program - much like our America's Road Team program - is dedicated to the proposition that not only should commerce be moved safely and efficiently, but it should be moved at a level and a standard that far exceeds the requirements of government. It's great to know that travel on our waterways is in such good hands. We in trucking are committed to being your partners in safety."

Walter B. McCormick, Jr.
President and CEO
American Trucking Associations

"I have reviewed the information contained in your brochure entitled "Responsible Carrier Program" and I must say I am impressed with what I see! As you are well aware, recent incidents have raised grave concerns about the New England towing vessel industry, particularly when used to transport oil or hazardous materials. Your Responsible Carrier Program is most certainly a step in the right direction, establishing uniform standards, safe work practices, and most importantly, accountability to towboat owners and operators. I heartily endorse the Responsible Carrier Program as well as other efforts your association has made to improve towboat safety and reduce pollution."

Rear Admiral R.M. Larrabee
U.S. Coast Guard
Commander, First Coast Guard District