[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 33, Volume 2]
[Revised as of July 1, 2003]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 33CFR168.60]

[Page 786]
 
                TITLE 33--NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
 
   CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)
 
PART 168--ESCORT REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN TANKERS--Table of Contents
 
Sec. 168.60  Pre-escort conference.

    (a) Before commencing an escort transit, the tanker master shall 
confer, by radio or in person, with the tanker pilot and the masters of 
the escort vessels regarding the escort operation.
    (b) The purpose of the pre-escort conference is for all parties to 
plan and discuss particulars of the escort transit.
    (c) At a minimum, the following topics must be addressed during the 
pre-escort conference:
    (1) The destination, route, planned speed, other vessel traffic, 
anticipated weather, tide, and sea conditions, and other navigational 
considerations;
    (2) The type and operational status of communication, towing, 
steering, and propulsion equipment on the tanker and escort vessels;
    (3) The relative positioning and reaction time for the escort 
vessels to move into assist positions, including, if appropriate, pre-
tethering the escort vessels at crucial points along the route;
    (4) The preparations required on the tanker and escort vessels, and 
the methods employed in making an emergency towline connection, 
including stationing of deck crews, preparation of messenger lines, 
bridles, and other towing gear, and energizing appropriate deck 
equipment;
    (5) The manner in which an emergency towline connection would be 
made (which escort vessel will respond, how messengers and towlines will 
be passed, etc.);
    (6) Other relevant information provided by the tanker master, pilot 
or escort vessel masters.