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TWIC UPDATE
The SEPTEMBER 25, 2008 deadline for Mariners to possess a TWIC has been extended by the TSA 7 months to APRIL 15. 2009.
Though the schedule has been relaxed, we must still continue to complete the process. If you are having problems getting your TWIC, please contact Gordie |
| Bilge Alarms
Is yours being checked?
Deep in the bilges, every MMI vessel has a small sensor that watches for rising water. Not always easy to find, it should be tested as per the "On Board Maintenance Program" manual on a daily basis.
Two types of switches are normally used on MMI boats found below the deck plates and above normal water(if any) level.
- Vertical float switches
- a small float containing a magnet, activates a reed switch sealed in the shaft, as the water rises. Normally found mounted amidships, forward on the bulkhead or a centerline vertical frame member.
- Horizontal float switch
- a floating arm pivoting on a shaft, activates a mercury switch as the water rises. Normally mounted amidships in the bilge on top of a transverse frame.
Simple tests are performed on a daily basis as per the "Wheelhouse Watch Change Checklist...section 1.2.14, Engine Room Inspection" to ensure proper operation of the alarm.
To test vertical float; mount a coffee can with a larger diameter than the float switch onto a broom stick, fill the can with water, position under the switch and raise up, submersing the float. Alarm should sound. Alternate...a stiff wire to construct a hook to lift up float if float is not encased.
To test horizontal float; use a stiff wire to construct a hook to lift up float. Alarm should sound. 
Float switch locations and set-ups are different on our boats, but a small amount of ingenuity can come up with an easy way to test the switch. |
 2008 Safety Board
Please submit nominations for the 2008 Safety Board Members by MAY 9, 2008 to Jay Frye.
Ballots containing names of those nominated will be sent via Email to the fleet on MAY 14. One ballot will go per boat. Four members will be needed;
- Captain
- Relief Captain or Pilot
- Tankerman
- Tankerman or Deckhand
Please nominate people who feel they will be able to travel to Houston for meetings in their off time. Pay/expenses will be accrued for time spent.
If you have any questions please give me a call.
Jay Frye
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 Maryland
Marine April Deckhand Class
Congratulations to the latest seven deckhands to graduate from deckhand orientation! The class was held in Baytown and covered the basic safety principle, such as skiff safety, man overboard prevention, and right to know. Pictured left to right are: Brett Guidry, Jeremy Fuller, Gerry Gower, Matthew Boykin, Allen West, Kevin McCrowsky, and Justin Estes. Please welcome them aboard when you see them! |
 Rules of the Road
Test your knowlege!!....email correct answer to Gordie...
INLAND ONLY - Passing signals shall be sounded on inland waters by __________.
a. all vessels upon sighting another vessel rounding a bend in the channel
b. towing vessel when meeting another towing vessel on a clear day with a 0.6 mile CPA (Closest Point of Approach)
c. a power-driven vessel when crossing less than half a mile ahead of another power-driven vessel
d. All of the above
INLAND ONLY - For the purpose of the Inland Navigation Rules, the term "inland waters" includes __________.
a. the Great Lakes on the United States side of the International Boundary
b. the water surrounding any islands of the United States
c. the coastline of the United States, out to one mile offshore
d. any lakes within state boundaries
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Kayla McAda Joins Channelview Office
 Please welcome Kayla McAda to the Higman family as our new Administrative Assistant to afloat personnel |
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Dates to Remember MAY 2008
Tankerman School- Two Rivers MAY 19 -MAY 24
Simulator Training MAY 19 -MAY 21 Candidates for Simulator training for MAY session, please call or email Diana as soon as possible. |
As the summer approaches, amount of pleasure craft increase on the water. Diligence on our part is critical in these situations to keep them out of harms way when their judgement is not so good.
Use of the danger signal can go a long way to keep them out of your way!
Sincerely, | |
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GORDIE KEENAN
HIGMAN MARINE SERVICES, Inc. |
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