Subchapter M: Raising the Safety Bar for the Entire Industry
AWO led one of the most important safety advances in the marine towing industry by helping to develop the federal Subchapter M safety regulations, landmark towing vessel safety regulations that require all U.S. towing vessels to meet strong safety standards enforced by the Coast Guard.
The Gold Standard: AWO’s Responsible Carrier Program (RCP)
One of the most important safety tools provided by AWO is the Responsible Carrier Program, or RCP. The U.S. Coast Guard has accepted the RCP as an official safety management system shortly that complies with the requirements of Subchapter M safety regulations.
Think of the RCP as a safety rulebook that AWO members must follow when operating towing vessels. The RCP helps them build their own strong safety plans and training programs that ensure the safety of people, property, and the environment.
Always Improving:
AWO’s Safety Statistics Reporting Program
Safety is not a one-time goal – it’s an ongoing effort in continuous improvement. AWO members have access to AWO’s Safety Statistics Reporting Program (SSRP), a proprietary reporting program that allows companies to share safety data to benchmark and measure progress.
Members can use SSRP data to develop lessons learned that help make our industry safer. The goal of these lessons is simple: fewer accidents and safer waterways every year.
Working with the U.S. Coast Guard
Established in 1995, the Coast Guard-AWO Quality Partnership is the longest running partnership between the Coast Guard and the maritime industry. It has defined how private industry and the government can work together toward a common safety goal. This partnership focuses on improving vessel and crew safety, encourages open communication between industry and the Coast Guard and uses data and real-world experiences to solve safety challenges.
Honoring HEROes on the Waterways
The American Waterways HERO, or Honor and Excellence in Rescue Operations, Award recognizes mariners who step up in critical moments. It honors AWO member company employees who show skill, bravery, and selflessness while responding to emergencies on the water — whether rescuing someone overboard, helping during a medical emergency, or assisting people in distress. These acts reflect the strong safety culture of the tugboat, towboat, and barge industry and highlight the everyday heroes who help keep our waterways safe.
