2.2.1 Units are to be provided with a main towing system suitable for towing
with one or two towing vessels and in addition it is recommended that an emergency
towing system is provided.
2.2.2 The emergency towing system may be arranged by using the unit's anchor
line or similar system.
2.2.3 The main towing system is to be suitable for the design load in
accordance with Pt 4, Ch 9, 2.1 General 2.1.2 but is not to be taken less than 75
tonne-f.
2.2.5 The main towing system is to consist of not less than the following
parts:
- Two attachments to the unit (e.g. towing brackets).
- Two chain/wire rope pendants connected to the unit.
- One triangular plate or equivalent.
- Two wire rope towlines as 'weak links'.
- Shackles for connections.
2.2.6 Wire ropes are to have 'hard eyes' fitted at their ends.
2.2.7 Where towing bridles can be subjected to heavy wear due to chafing,
chains are to be used.
2.2.8 The attachments to the unit are to be as far apart as practicable and on
column-stabilised units the attachments are to be fitted to the lower hulls.
2.2.9 The length of the towing pendants attached to the unit is not to be less
than the distance between the attachments.
2.2.10 The position and arrangement of the towing attachments are to be such
that it is possible to change the chain/wire towing pendant connections quickly in
calm water.
2.2.11 When towing with two towing vessels, each towline (weak link) is to be
fitted between the unit's towing pendants and the towlines of the towing vessels.
When towing with one towing vessel, the towline (weak link) is to be connected
between the triangular plate or equivalent and the towline of the towing vessel.
2.2.12 The length of each towline (weak link) is, in general, not to be less
than 50 m so that the connection to the towline of the towing vessel is at a safe
distance from the unit.