The CMA CGM Group, a leading worldwide shipping group, and the German Authority Havariekommando tested Havariekommando´s capability to tow ultra-large container vessels during an exercise held on June 13th 2015.
The vessel used for this exercise was the CMA CGM JULES VERNE, the Group’s 16 000 TEU flagship.
During the exercise, the Havariekommando ordered the CMA CGM JULES VERNE:
- To alter its geographical position,
- To take over the role of a “vessel in distress” in an emergency towing,
- To allow and assist representatives of the Havariekommando to board.
Credits: cma-cgm.com
The task of Havariekommando´s operation forces were
- To board the ship via helicopter
- To evaluate the situation with the master of the CMA CGM JULES VERNE
- To train the communication between the on-scene-coordinator, the boarding team, the emergency towing vessels and the CMA CMG JULES VERNE
- To assemble towing connections
- To tow the CMA CGM JULES VERNE on different courses
This exercise was intended as a learning experience conducted at Deep Water Road off Heligoland to enhance preparedness for emergency towing operations and succeeded in demonstrating both the Havariekommando and CMA CGM responsible attitude toward safety and environment.
Wolfgang Knopf, On Scene Coordinator (OSC) said that “The collaboration between the crew of CMA CGM JULES VERNE and our operative forces was excellent. The advantages of the Emergency Towing system on board CMA CGM Jules Verne, which is not yet compulsory for large container vessels, nevertheless providing enormous benefits for the towing operation in terms of safety and strength.”
The CMA CGM Group is a leading and recognized industry player in the field of safety and security, and constantly aims to achieve the highest security standards at all times.
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