Looking in a towboat engine room, every pump that is not connected to one of the diesel engines has an electric motor driving it, the steering pumps, bilge and ballast pump, the fire pump. Add to that list the air compressors, the seweage plant pump and blower and the fresh water pumps.

To start any of these larger motors, a magnetic electric motor starter is needed.

Why are they needed and why can't the circuit breaker start the motor on its own?

Circuit breakers, located typically on the main switch board for our bigger motors, are the gateway for electrical current to flow from the power source (generator or shore power) to a specific motor. It is either on or off and is not designed to cycle as the equipment is used. Once the circuit breaker is switched to "on," the current flows to the next stop, the magnetic motor starter (also called the controller).

The circuit breaker is designed to trip if there is a large surge in current.

The magnetic motor controller does several things:

It is an electromagnetically operated switch that provides a safe method for starting an electric motor with a large load. Magnetic starters also provide under-voltage and overload protection and an automatic cutoff in the event of a power failure.

The starter may be set up to allow remote starting of the equipment such as with the steering pumps and the boat deck winches. It can also be used to reverse the motor such as with the boat deck winches.

During motor start-up, a coil is energized, setting up a magnetic field which pulls together the contacts to complete the electrical circuit to the motor.

What do you need to know about?

Never open a motor controller box without securing the power source, the circuit breaker. There also may be more than one power source in some applications.
If it is ever required to open a motor controller box, use Lock Out Tag Out procedures.
If an electric motor is overloaded for a period of time, the thermal overload relay (called the "heater") will trip the contactor coil and stop the flow of current. This can typically be corrected after a cool down period by pushing the "reset" button.

Make sure you know where "reset" buttons are located on your magnetic motor starters. Note: Not all starters have "reset" buttons.

In case a motor stops turning;

Check the circuit breaker first after a motor stops unexpectedly; reset if tripped.
Push the "reset" button on the motor controller if the circuit breaker is not tripped and the motor does not work.

Contact the office for repairs if the above does not work. Most electromagnetic motor starters are not repairable with vessel resources. Your repair department will handle repairs.

You Have the Right to Know, Part 3

Upon Further Review....

In our continuing series on the MSDS we will discuss sections 5 through 8. In the last issue of our Training Newsletter we discussed sections 1 through 4.

Below is a listing of all sections of an MSDS; we are using the 16 section MSDS ASNI version which will be the industry standard in June 2015. The MSDS we are using is for starting fluid for a skiff. The name of the product is Jump Start Starting Fluid with Lubricity. There will be a short quiz at the end of this article

The 16 Sections are:

Identification of the product
Hazard(s) identification
Composition/information on Ingredients
First Aid measures
Firefighting measures
Accidental Release measures
Handling and storage
Exposure control/personal protection
Physical and chemical properties
Stability and reactivity
Toxicological information
Ecological information
Disposal considerations
Transport information
Regulatory information
Other information

Section 5: FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

This section will discuss the flammability, extinguishing method, and explosion hazards of the product.

Flammable Properties:

This product is extremely flammable is accordance with aerosol flammability definitions.

This section will list the flashpoint, auto ignition temperature, upper explosive limit and lower explosion limit.

Fire and Explosion Data:

SUITABLE EXTINGUISHING Method: Carbon dioxide foam, dry chemical, Class B extinguishers.

PRODUCTS OF COMBUSTION: Oxides of carbon

EXPLOSION HAZARDS: Aerosol containers when exposed to heat from fire, may build pressure and explode. Vapors may accumulate in a confined space and create a flammable atmosphere.

PROTECTION OF FIRE FIGHTERS: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus for protection against suffocation and possible toxic decomposition products. Proper eye and skin protection should be provided. Use water spray to keep fire exposed containers cool and knock down vapors.

Section 6: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

This section will discuss what procedures and precautions to be used in the event of area lease of the product such as a spill.

PERSONAL PRECAUTIONS: What PPE to use. Listed in Section 8

ENVIRONMENTAL PRECAUTIONS: Take precautions to prevent contamination of ground and surface waters. Do not flush into sewers or drains.

METHODS FOR CONTAINMENT AND CLEAN UP: Dike area to contain spill. Ventilate the area with fresh air. If in confined space or limited air circulation area, cleanup workers should wear appropriate respiratory protection listed in section 8. Recovered or absorb spill material using an absorbent designed for chemical spills. Place used absorbent materials into proper waste containers.

Section 7: HANDLING AND STORAGE

This section will discuss the proper handling and storage procedures for the product.

HANDLING PROCEDURES: Do not use near open flames, heat, or any sources of ignition. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Use proper ventilation that will remove vapors from low areas. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with the skin. Use caution around energized equipment. The metal container will conduct electricity if it contacts a live source. This may result in injury to the user from electrical shock and/or flash fire.

STORAGE PROCEDURES: Store in a cool dry area out of direct sunlight. Aerosol cans must be maintained below 120 F to prevent cans from rupturing. Do not store near sources of ignition.

Section 8: EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION

This section will discuss exposure guidelines, controls, and PPE for the product.

Exposure Guideline:

This part will cover the components that make up the product which includes:

Diethyl Ether, Heptane, Carbon Dioxide, and an upper cylinder lubricant.

This part will also list the established OSHA levels for exposure in TWA (time weighted average in an 8 hour period for PEL (personal exposure limit) and STEL (short term exposure limit) in regards to the product.

Controls and Protection:

ENGINEERING CONTROLS: Area should have ventilation to provide fresh air. Local exhaust ventilation is generally preferred because it can control the emissions of the containment at the source.

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION: None is required for normal work where adequate ventilation is provided. Use a self-contained breathing apparatus in confined spaces and emergencies.

EYE/FACE PROTECTION: For normal conditions, wear safety glasses. Where there is reasonable probability of liquid contact, wear splash-proof goggles.

SKIN PROTECTION: Use protective gloves such as Nitrile or neoprene. Also, use full protective clothing if there is prolonged or repeated contact of liquid with skin.

QUIZ (From TNL Issue 8 April 16, 2014)

1. Presently there are to 2 optional MSDS'S in use. The 8 section OSHA MSDS and THE 16 section ASNI version.

True ____

False ____

2. In section 1 of the MSDS - Identification, there will not only be the manufacturer's phone number but also a 24 hour emergency contact number.

True____

False____

3. Section 2 of the MSDS is:

1. Composition/Information on ingredients_____

2. First Aid Measures_____

3. Hazards Identification______

4. Handling and Storage______

4. In Section 4 of the MSDS - First Aid Measures, is where you will find the "Note to Physician" which gives specific care instructions for a physician and any treatment that might be listed should not be done by a non-medical person.

True ____

False____

Best Practices

Every boat has good ideas.

Good ideas need to be shared, refined and become "Best Practices". A "Best Practice" is defined as a method or technique which shows results superior to those achieved with other means, and that is used as a benchmark. In addition, a "Best Practice" can evolve to become better as improvements are discovered.

This column is dedicated to sharing the best practices developed while operating your tow. Each issue we will outline a "Best Practice" sent in by the fleet. Share your Best Practice by sending to Gordie

This week's "Best Practice" is sent by the Relief Captain of the M/V MARRERO

Especially during high water conditions, before taking over the watch, I call the local river stage hot line to get the most up to date river stage and flow rate. In our operating area...LMR - Baton Rouge, southward and Atchafalaya, here is the number I use:

(504)-862-2461

If you have useful river stage phone numbers for other parts of the river, please let Gordie know and we will share with the fleet.

Submitted by: Relief Captain Cory Ledet

2nd Quarter CBT

The 2nd Quarter courses are available on the updated CBT website. Quarterly CBT's are required to be taken by all vessel employees. The courses this quarter are:

Introduction to SMS

SMS Policy Changes Part 1

SMS Policy Changes Part 2

Slips, Trips and Falls

Higman Marine Vapor Control

The three SMS courses will require you to make 100% on the quiz. Remember, once you pass the quiz you must get your certificate. When you get your certificate your score is then passed on to the office. Let us know what you think of the new layout.

Rose Point Tip of the Week

River Stages

Rose point ECS can show you both current river stages and forecasts stages for any river location monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

To see the current river stage, switch your Rose Point screen to planning mode. You can use the "F12" button to easily go between Planning Mode or Cruising Mode. Make sure though, that your Rose Point system is connected to the internet so data is up to date.

To see River Stages:

Change screen to "Planning Mode" -- (push F12).
Click on "Conditions".
On the left hand panel, click on "River Stages".
The river stage for your location will appear in the top portion of the screen.

Reading the chart:

The Blue Line ends on the time line chart at the current stage and the current time. Follow the line to the left on the time line to see the past stages for the last few days.
The Green Line starts to the right of the Blue Line on the time line chart. This shows the predicted stages from the USACE typically five days out.

Color code on the Time Line Chart:

The time line is color coded to easily show where the river stage is in the various flood categories:

YELLOW.....action stage level.
ORANGE.....flood stage.
RED...........moderate flood stage.
PURPLE......major flood stage.

Higman Deckhand Academy

We welcome your input and participation.

Our next Deckhand Academy class will be starting on May 12 and it will run through May 18. It will be held at the Channelview office. If you or your boat are in the area, and you would like to assist with the class, feel free to contact Dennis at 281-864-6018 or at dennisz@higman.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

C'mon recent Deckhand Academy graduates!

Help the old guy out!

2014 Advanced Pilothouse Management for Wheelmen

A Higman requirement to attend one session every 5 years!

Starting May 12-14, and continuing until Sept 29-Oct 1, Wheelmen have the opportunity to participate in hands-on Advanced Pilothouse Management Training (Simulator) at Seaman's Church. Each 2.5 day course involves simulator training so you can practice various routes and different waterway situations. You will be able to ask questions, give comments and receive constructive feedback from the staff at Seaman's Church and also from Higman Training Personnel.

One evening after training all participants are invited to join us for dinner at a local restaurant for wind-down time and conversation with coworkers and Higman shore side personnel.

Dates are listed below, and will continue to be published twice monthly in the Higman Training Newsletter.

Spaces are limited so remember to contact us early to book your reservation!

Act now to call or email Janis or Kelly to schedule your training time.

2014 Advanced Pilothouse Management at SCI

First Session	May 12-14
Second Session	JUN 16-18
Third Session	JUL 21-23
Fourth Session	AUG 18-20
Fifth Session	SEP 29-OCT 1

Don't Waste the Paper

New Electronic Safety Management System (SMS)

The new electronic SMS has been released. You can find it on Higmanboats.com following the Maintenance Section. There are currently two of the three volumes available: Volume 1 Policy and Procedure Manual and Volume 3 Higman AWO Alternative Security Plan. Volume 2, Tank Vessel Response Plan, will be available in the electronic format in Summer 2014 after the Coast Guard 5-year review.

Do not remove any of your current manuals until all crew members have reviewed the three SMS CBT's available on www.higmantraining.com (but remember to leave the Vessel Response Plan). Please send the sign-in sheets from the paper manuals to Kyle Shaw at the Houston Office. We want to keep these for historical records. Going forward, records will be kept electronically through CBTs.

Each manual is a PDF file and can be opened with Adobe Reader. These manuals can only be accessed from the Wheelhouse computer and Training computer. Use the boat specific log-in and password to access the files.

The new system encourages vessel feedback to ensure that we remain up to date on policies and procedures. Anytime there is a requested change to a policy, shore staff will review the recommendation and act accordingly. If there is a change, the change will be highlighted in red text and will be included in the Record of Amendments.

If you have any issues opening the new SMS please contact Amy Kappes, Compliance Supervisor, in the Houston office. For any questions regarding a particular policy please contact your Port Captain.

Nav Zone-Where Not to Meet

Rule 8, Action to Avoid Collison. "Any action taken to avoid collision shall, if the circumstance of the case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seameanship"

Ample time may mean that you need to slow down BEFORE a bend so that you do not slide into another vessel while trying to meet them.

There is no reason to meet another tow in the middle of a bend. If it appears that you will be meeting a tow in a bend, just slow down a couple mph. It may add a few minutes to the trip, but that will not compare to the cost of an incident. This becomes an unnecessary risk.

This can also apply to high traffic areas. If there is heavy traffic and you are questioning the situation, just hold up a few minutes.

USCG Navigation General Questions

INLAND ONLY Which statement is TRUE concerning narrow channels?

a. You should keep to that side of the channel which is on your port side.
b. You should avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.
c. A vessel having a following current will propose the manner of passage in any case where two vessels are meeting.
d. All of the above

INLAND ONLY Under the Inland Navigation Rules, what is the meaning of the two short blasts signal used when meeting another vessel?

a. "I am turning to starboard."
b. "I am turning to port."
c. "I intend to leave you on my starboard side."
d. "I intend to leave you on my port side."

INLAND ONLY A power-driven vessel operating in a narrow channel with a following current on the Great Lakes or Western Rivers is meeting an upbound vessel. Which statement is TRUE?

a. The downbound vessel has the right-of-way.
b. The downbound vessel must initiate the required maneuvering signals.
c. The downbound vessel must propose the manner and place of passage.
d. All of the above

INLAND ONLY You are meeting another vessel head-on and sound one short blast as a passing signal. The other vessel answers with two short blasts. What should be your next action?

a. Pass on the other vessel's starboard side.
b. Sound the danger signal.
c. Pass astern of the other vessel.
d. Hold your course and speed.

INLAND ONLY Two vessels are meeting on a clear day and will pass less than half a mile apart. In this situation whistle signals __________.

a. must be exchanged
b. may be exchanged
c. must be exchanged if passing agreements have not been made by radio
d. must be exchanged only if course changes are necessary by either vessel

Nautical Trivia

The Texas Navy....the first Texas Navy

In 1836 when Texas proclaimed its Independence from Mexico , the small nation was immediately faced with invasion on land and sea by overwhelming forces from Mexico ---a power having many times the population and military resources of the infant Republic of Texas.

The first Texas Navy, consisting of four hastily purchased and minimally equipped small sailing vessels, was headquartered at Galveston, and prevented the Mexican government from landing a second army on the Texas coast. Had this army landed, it would have trapped General Sam Houston and his small command.

The Army of Texas finally triumphed over its larger and much better equipped foe at San Jacinto, and historians now agree that one of the most important elements in that great victory was the brief but furious maritime activity of the Texas Navy.

Shortly after that triumph, the first Texas Navy was disbanded; its task completed.

The four schooners purchased schooners were:

Independence.
Invincible
Brutus
Liberty

Texian Schooners of War --INDEPENDENCE and BRUTUS

Stern Shots

Tankerman Bradley Bishop & Relief Captain Corey Ledet get a workout onboard M/V Marrero

M/V Marrero lookin' sharp at a visit to Peninsula dock

The crew of M/V Calcasieu hand crafted this paddle especially for our Higman President, Mr. George Thomas

A closer look at the nautical knots, flags, and special insignia adorning the paddle

The paddle joins a wall display in Mr. Thomas's office at the Higman Galleria corporate location

Dates to Remember

2014 Advanced Pilothouse Management at SCI

First Session	May 12-14
Second Session	JUN 16-18
Third Session	JUL 21-23
Fourth Session	AUG 18-20
Fifth Session	SEP 29-OCT 1

2014 Tankermen Seminars

Fifth Session	MAY 21
Sixth Session	JUN 5
Seventh Session	JUL 29
Eighth Session	AUG 6
Ninth Session	SEP 23
Tenth Session	OCT 15
Eleventh Session	NOV 20

2014 Wheelmen's Seminar

Complete for 2014

2014 Steersman Boot Camp

Third Session	JUL 24-25
Fourth Session	OCT 20-21

2014 Higman Leadership and Management Course

First Session	OCT 2-3
Second Session	OCT 13-14

To schedule training please email Kelly or Janis or call at 281-864-6010.

DO ALL CREWMEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO THE HIGMAN TRAINING NEWSLETTER?

PLEASE MAKE SURE A HARD COPY IS PRINTED AND MADE AVAILABLE FOR THE CREW.
Add your email address with the "Join our Mailing List" button (above, page 1, left side) to get your own copy!

Answers to this weeks Rules of the Road....B,C,D,B,C

Answers to this weeks MSDS questions....

1. T, 2. T, 3. 3, 4. T

In our above Nautical Trivia section we discuss the First Texas Navy which was formed in 1835 and disbanded after victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.

A second Texas Navy was formed in 1839 to defend against renewed Mexican aggression against the Republic of Texas. This force continued until 1845 when Texas joined the Union. The Texas Navy was then absorbed into the United States Navy.

The third Texas Navy was established as a commemorative organization by Governor Price Daniel in 1958 and continues to today.

There are three members of the Texas Navy in the Higman Organization: John McMahan, Kyle Shaw and Gordie Keenan. (I got in this past weekend!)

Don't worry; no need to salute when you see us!

Have a great and safe week!

Sincerely, Gordie, Kelly, Dennis and Janis

GORDIE KEENAN
KELLY CLEAVER

JANIS ANDERSON

DENNIS ZINK

� 2014 HIGMAN MARINE SERVICES, Inc.