CONTENTS Introduction...2-3 Los Angeles Pilot Service...4-5 Pilot Ladder Requirements...6-7 Radio Communications...8 Information Sources - Websites...8 Land Line Telephone Numbers...9 Tugs, Water Taxis and Salvage...10-11 Environmental Notice to Ships...11-12 Vessel Operating Procedures...13-29 Wind Force Chart...23 Public Notice on the Los Angeles Channel Deepening Project...29-33 Facilities for Visiting Seafarers...34 Foreign Quarantine...35 Wharf Elevation and Depth at Berths...36-37 National Weather Service...37 Map of the Port of Los Angeles...38-39 Horizontal and Vertical Clearances...40-41 Boating Safety Information...42 Controlled Navigation Areas...42 Small (Recreational) Vessel Safety...43 Metric Conversion Table...44-50 Sunrise and Sunset Table...51 Tide Tables...52-75 Notes...76 The data contained herein is provided only for general informational purposes and no reliance should be placed upon it for determining the course of conduct by any user of the Port of Los Angeles. The accuracy of statistical data is not assured by this Port, as it has been furnished by outside agencies and sources. Acceptance of Port of Los Angeles Pilot Service is pursuant to all the terms, conditions and restrictions of the Port of Los Angeles Tariff and any amendments thereto.
WELCOME TO THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES! The Port of Los Angeles America s Port and the premier gateway for international commerce is located in San Pedro Bay, 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. This thriving seaport not only sustains its competitive edge with record-setting cargo operations, but is also known for its groundbreaking environmental initiatives, progressive security measures, diverse recreational and educational facilities, and an emerging LA Waterfront. The Port of Los Angeles encompasses 7,500 acres of land and water along 43 miles of waterfront. It features 25 passenger and cargo terminals, including automobile, breakbulk, container, dry and liquid bulk, and warehouse facilities that handle billions of dollars worth of cargo each year. When measured by container throughput, the Port has consecutively ranked as the number one port in the nation for the last decade. Amidst the backdrop of international trade and shipping, the Port of Los Angeles also boasts the bustling World Cruise Center, quaint Ports O Call Village, welcoming Vincent Thomas Bridge, signature Fanfare Fountains and Water Features, historic Angels Gate Lighthouse, vintage Waterfront Red Car Line, and new green space at 22nd Street Park. With an exceptional credit record, the Port maintains an Aa2 bond rating, the highest assigned to any seaport in the United States operating without the benefit of taxpayer support. The Port also wields tremendous economic impact, generating employment for more than 3.3 million Americans nationwide. In California alone, nearly 1 million jobs are related to trade though the Port of Los Angeles. Complementing its busy terminal operations with green alternatives, the Port of Los Angeles remains committed to managing resources and conducting Port developments and operations in both an environmentally and fiscally responsible manner. The Port of Los Angeles: America s Port. 2
Final Phase of Main Channel Deepening Project The Port of Los Angeles is in the final phase of its 13-year, $370 million Main Channel Deepening Project (MCDP). After a fiveyear break in the project to identify and environmentally assess additional disposal sites for the soil dredged up by deepening the Port s main waterways, a designated outer harbor location directly west of Angel s Gate, was identified as a containment area to hold clean dredge material and expand the Port s thriving outer harbor shallow water habitat by an additional 50 acres. Completing the final phase of the Main Channel Deepening Project by 2013 is critical to future trade growth and job creation at the Port of Los Angeles, especially in light of the completion of the Panama Canal expansion in 2014. The widening of the Panama Canal will enable it to accommodate the larger ships that routinely call at L.A. and other major west coast ports, providing an all-water route to Gulf and East Coast destinations. The Port of Los Angeles has $350 million in terminal expansion projects currently underway at its China Shipping and TraPac container facilities. Resumption of the Main Channel Deepening Project has been a key element to delivering those projects on schedule. Channel deepening will also be completed in waterways leading to the Yusen/NYK, Evergreen and Yang Ming container terminals, as well as the presently vacant terminal at Berths 206-209. For more information about the Port of Los Angeles, please visit www.portoflosangeles.org. 3
LOS ANGELES PILOT SERVICE The Los Angeles Pilot Service dates back to 1907, when the Port of Los Angeles was founded. Today, the Pilot Service employs 29 dedicated professionals, combining the skills of pilots, dispatchers and boat crew to provide expert pilotage services to Port of Los Angeles customers. The mission of the Los Angeles Pilot Service is to provide safe, reliable and efficient pilotage and marine services. Over the last decade, the Los Angeles Pilots have safely completed more than 55,000 vessel movements. They are among the best-trained pilots in the maritime industry. After a rigorous two-year training program, each pilot attends manned-model shiphandling courses in Grenoble, France, once every four years. Each pilot also attends ship simulator training every two years. LOS ANGELES PILOT SERVICE Bent Christiansen, Chief Port Pilot Michael Rubino, Chief Port Pilot Pilots John Arndt William Baumann John Betz Richard Crowley Kerry DeMatos John Dwyer Craig Flinn Jeffrey Lee Joe Manlove Brett McDaniel Michael Owens Richard Rauhut Ed Royles Dispatchers Beth Adamik Kathleen Bautista Michelle Flinn Pauline Hospe Cherie Ivers Boat Operators John Cameron Danny Domingo Deckhands Debora Biron Kirk Bosco Robin Craigen Garrick Gilham Raymond Maese Alex Suarez Lil E. Bouchelle 4
PORT OF LOS ANGELES PILOT SERVICE Berth 68 San Pedro (310) 732-3805 (310) 519-9189 (fax) VHF Radio Channel 73 (156.675 MHz) Call: KEB260 Los Angeles Pilots The Los Angeles Pilot Station is manned 24 hours a day. Pilots board arriving vessels from the pilot boat in the vicinity of Los Angeles Channel RACON Buoy #3. Tank vessels will be boarded at least two nautical miles from the Los Angeles entrance. Deep-draft vessels (draft more than 55 feet) will be boarded in the vicinity of Los Angeles Channel Buoy #1. Under normal weather conditions, the pilot ladder should be rigged on the starboard side one meter above water. A minimum of two hours advance notice is required for Port Pilot service. Masters or agents are requested to advise the Pilot Station when there is a change in the arrival or sailing time. COMMUNICATIONS Operational communications in the Los Angeles/Long Beach harbor area are conducted by marine VHF radio and commercial telephone from five principal nodes: VTS, Los Angeles Port Pilot Service, Long Beach Pilots, Port of Long Beach Security and the U.S. Coast Guard Long Beach. All users are encouraged to minimize voice traffic on all channels, maintain circuit discipline and broadcast on low power whenever possible. FIRE ALARM SIGNAL All Vessels Except Those Underway Five prolonged blasts on whistle or siren. Repeat at intervals to attract attention. TELEPHONE LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT DISPATCH CENTER (non-emergencies) (213) 485-6185 EMERGENCIES 911 5
PILOT LADDER REQUIREMENTS Pilot Ladder Requirements for Los Angeles Pilots in Addition to SOLAS Regulation 17, Chapter 5. a) Please contact Los Angeles Pilots KEB260 by VHF Radio Channel 73 a minimum of two hours prior to arrival to confirm estimated time of arrival and for information regarding desired lee. b) Rigging of the pilot ladder, as well as the embarking or disembarking of the pilot, should be under supervision of a responsible officer. c) The ladder should be made in one length and fitted with spreaders approximately 10 feet apart to comply with SOLAS Regulation 17, Chapter 5. d) The area of the deck where the pilot boards should be clear of obstacles to ensure a safe passage for the pilot. e) Trailing lines or retrieving lines should not be attached to the lower end of the ladder. f) Ladders should be rigged well clear of discharge and water outlets and at a place near midship clear of the finer lines of the vessel. At no time should the ladder be rigged near the stern of the ship. g) The ladder should be in good condition and rigged so that the steps remain horizontal when used. h) Accommodation ladders must not be used for pilot boarding or disembarking. PILOT LADDER REQUIREMENTS DIRECTION OF WIND AND SWELL RIG LADDER ON LEE SIDE AMIDSHIP 3 FEET (1 METER) FROM WATER 6 PILOT BOAT PILOT LADDER FWD 3 FEET
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8 RADIO COMMUNICATIONS Los Angeles/Long Beach Area VHF Radio PRINCIPAL OPERATING CHANNELS Station Channel Frequency Bridge to Bridge... 13...156.650 MHz Noncommercial Calling... 9...156.450 MHz Distress Safety and Calling... 16...156.800 MHz Vessel Traffic Information Service... 14...156.700 MHz Los Angeles Port Pilots... 73...156.675 MHz... 63A...156.175 MHz Long Beach Port Pilots... 74...156.725 MHz... 12...156.600 MHz U.S. Coast Guard... 22A (Primary)...156.100 MHz... 12 (Secondary)...156.600 MHz U.S. Navy... 12 (Primary)...156.600 MHz... 65A (Secondary)...156.275 MHz Harbor Tugs... 77 (Primary LA)...156.875 MHz... 5A (Primary LB)...156.250 MHz... 65A (Secondary)...156.275 MHz Intership Safety... 6...156.300 MHz INFORMATION SOURCES - WEBSITES L.A. Pilot http://www.lapilots.org Port of Los Angeles http://www.portoflosangeles.org Port of Los Angeles Tariff http://www.portoflosangeles.org/finance/tariff_4.asp Marine Exchange of Southern California http://www.mxsocal.org/ VTS Users Manual http://www.mxsocal.org/vessel-traffic-service/vts-user-manual.aspx Meteorological information for Los Angeles and Long Beach Harbors http://www.co-ops.nos.noaa.gov/llports/llallmet.html United States Coast Guard Los Angeles http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/portdirectory. do?tabid=1&cotpid=32
LAND LINE TELEPHONE NUMBERS American Marine Corp... (310) 832-3321/(310) 547-0919 AMNAV Marine Services... (310) 901-3383 Badger Avenue Bridge... (310) 830-0660 Cal. Dept. of Fish & Game Marine Region... (562) 342-7100 Commodore Heim Bridge... (562) 436-0714 Crowley Marine Services... (310) 732-6500 Curtin Maritime Corp... (562) 343-3170 Foss Maritime Co.... (562) 435-0171 Immigration & Customs Enforcement... (310) 241-2300 Jankovich Company... (800) 836-5355 Long Beach Pilots... (562) 432-0664 Los Angeles Pilots... (310) 732-3805 Marine Exchange... (310) 832-6411 Marine Operator...Dial 0 /Ask for Marine Operator Millennium Maritime Inc... (310) 831-9200 Muldoon Marine Services, Inc... (562) 432-5670 National Lines Bureau... (310) 832-8387 Pacific Tugboat Service... (562) 590-8188 Port Meteorological Office... (562) 980-4090 Public Service Marine Inc... (310) 549-1700 Sause Bros. Ocean Towing... (562) 901-0365/(800) 662-0365 Seaway Co. of Catalina... (310) 518-7099 So. Cal. Ship Services... (310) 519-8411 U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port... (310) 521-3600 Waterways Management... (310) 521-3860 Vessel Inspections (Domestic)... (310) 521-3725 Vessel Inspections (International)... (310) 521-3705 Regional Exam Center... (562) 495-1480 24-Hour Emergency...(800) 221-USCG Environmental Response... (310) 521-3780 Facilities/Container Inspections... (310) 521-3745 Investigations... (310) 521-3770 USDA-Agriculture Long Beach... (562) 628-8900 Hawthorne... (310) 725-1900 U.S. Customs-Marine Section... (562) 366-5494 U.S. Water Taxi... (310) 519-8230 Westoil Marine Services Inc... (310) 549-1700 LOS ANGELES HARBOR DEPARTMENT General Information...(310) 732-7678/TDD Executive Offices... (310) 732-3456 Chief Wharfinger... (310) 732-3810 Port Police... (310) 732-3500 Port Pilots... (310) 732-3805 POLICE AND FIRE EMERGENCY NUMBERS...911 9
TUGS, WATER TAXIS AND SALVAGE AMERICAN MARINE CORP. Berths 270-271, 1500 S. Barracuda St., Terminal Island (310) 832-3321, (310) 547-0919 AMNAV MARINE SERVICES 100 Pine Ave., Ste. 804, Long Beach (310) 901-3383 CROWLEY MARINE SERVICES Berth 86, 300 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro (310) 732-6500 CURTIN MARITIME CORP. Berth 57, 1500 Pier C, Long Beach (562) 343-3170 FOSS MARITIME CO. Berth 35, Pier D St., Long Beach (562) 435-0171 MILLENNIUM MARITIME INC. 300 E. Waters St., Wilmington (310) 831-9200, (310) 445-1700 MULDOON MARINE SERVICES, INC. 716 West 14th St., Long Beach (562) 432-5670 PACIFIC TUGBOAT SERVICE, INC. Berth C-58, 1512 W. Pier C St., Long Beach (562) 590-8188 PUBLIC SERVICE MARINE INC. 300 E. Waters St., Wilmington (310) 549-1700 SAUSE BROS. OCEAN TOWING 1607 W. Pier D St., Long Beach (562) 901-0365, (800) 662-0365 SEAWAY CO. OF CATALINA Berth 184, 100 W. Water St., Wilmington (310) 518-7099 SO. CAL. SHIP SERVICES Berth 240X, 971 S. Seaside Ave., Terminal Island (310) 519-8411 SOUTHBAY OIL TRANSPORT 110 Pine Ave., Suite 804, Long Beach (562) 435-8158 10
U.S. WATER TAXI Berth 60, San Pedro (310) 519-8230 WESTOIL MARINE SERVICES INC. Berth 74, 401 Canal St., Wilmington (310) 549-1700 ENVIRONMENTAL NOTICE TO SHIPS EXCESSIVE SMOKE/BOILER TUBE BLOWING If boiler tube blowing results in soot being deposited in such quantities as to create a nuisance, Section 41700 of the California Health and Safety Code will be enforced. Section 41700 provides that no person shall discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or to the public, or which endanger the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such persons or the public, or which cause, or have a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or property. Furthermore, as provided in Section 41701 of the California Health and Safety Code, it shall be unlawful for any person from any source whatsoever to discharge into the atmosphere any contaminant, other than uncombined water vapor, for a period or periods aggregating more than three minutes in any one hour which is as dark or darker in shade as that designated as No. 2 on the Ringelmann Chart, as published by the United States Bureau of Mines. VESSEL SPEED REDUCTION PROGRAM Leading an industry-wide, first of its kind voluntary program, the Port of Los Angeles asks that every vessel within 20 miles of the Port reduce its speed to 12 knots. This reduction eliminates tons of smog forming emissions each day, upholding the Port s commitment to cleaner harbor air. Port of Los Angeles customers have observed this voluntary speed limit since 2002. Vessel speeds are monitored by the Marine Exchange of Southern California. For more information, call (310) 832-6411. 11
POLLUTION REGULATIONS Los Angeles Harbor is one of the cleanest in the world due to extensive efforts to combat water pollution. Anti-pollution regulations at the Port of Los Angeles are strictly enforced. It is unlawful to discharge oil into the water in any quantity sufficient to cause a sheen. All discharges of oil must be reported immediately to the National Response Center (NRC) at (800) 424-8802. If unable to reach NRC, you can contact the local Coast Guard unit at (562) 521-3780 or on VHF/FM Channel 16. Also notify the California Office of Emergency Services at (800) 852-7550. BALLAST WATER The unintentional introduction of non-native organisms can create serious ecological problems and cause economic harm. California state law requires open ocean exchange of ballast water for ships that will be discharging ballast water into California waters after operating outside the EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) unless safety considerations do not permit such exchange. Ballast water reporting forms must be filed for a ship making its first call at a California port after operating outside the EEZ. Reports are due to the California State Lands Commission after ballasting operations are completed and before the ship leaves port. The California State Board of Equalization, Environmental Fees Division, collects a $200 fee for each qualifying voyage. Contact the California State Lands Commission at (562) 499-6312 for further information on state requirements. In addition, a ballast water reporting form must be filed with the U. S. Coast Guard at the first U.S. port of call. Other federal requirements may apply. Contact the U. S. Coast Guard at (310) 521-3600 for more information. 12
VESSEL OPERATING PROCEDURES The LA/LB Harbor Safety Plan (HSP) contains operating procedures for vessels. An electronic copy of the HSP can be seen on the Marine Exchange website at www.mxsocal.org. All of the procedures are considered Good Marine Practice, but some are regulations (either local, state or federal) while others are non-regulatory Standards of Care. These Vessel Operating Procedures have been extracted from the main text of the HSP in order to create a helpful Quick Reference Guide containing the most important information necessary for safe, reliable and environmentally sound vessel movements in and around the port area. These Vessel Operating Procedures list only the basics. Additional and more detailed information can be found in HSP chapters addressing each topic. Port tariffs also contain requirements for vessels operating in and around the port. Familiarization and compliance with the Harbor Safety Plan and the port tariff(s) are a must! Nothing in these procedures precludes a master and/or pilot from taking necessary and prudent actions to avoid or mitigate unsafe conditions. Important General Information Pilot Requirements: Local port tariffs require vessels of greater than 300 gross tons to use a federally-licensed pilot whenever navigating inside the Federal Breakwater. In most circumstances, vessels employ the services of a federally-licensed local pilot from the Los Angeles Pilot Service (for the Port of Los Angeles) or Jacobsen Pilot Service (for the Port of Long Beach). In instances where a local pilot is not used, Masters must have a local federal pilot license and receive approval from the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) prior to entering or departing port. Vessels are required (outbound vessels:15 minutes prior to getting underway; inbound vessels:15 minutes prior to entering the Federal Breakwater) to establish communications and coordinate movements with the appropriate local pilot organization and Vessel Traffic Service (VTS). Equipment Failures Vessels are required by law to report navigational equipment, propulsion, steering or other vital system failures as soon as possible to the Coast Guard via the COTP office or the Captain of the Port representative at VTS on Channel 14. 13
The COTP will require appropriate equivalent levels of safety provided by such things as: 1. Directing vessels to outside anchorage pending verification of repairs. 2. Proceed into port at safest slow speed with suitable tug escort/assist. 3. Second licensed navigation officer on the bridge for radar plotting, etc. 4. Sea trials performed to the satisfaction of the Master, pilot and COTP. VESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Vessel traffic in the ports of and approaches to Los Angeles and Long Beach is managed by three entities: 1. Vessel Traffic Service for the port approaches (25 nautical miles from Point Fermin to the Federal Breakwater). 2. Los Angeles Pilot Service for the Port of Los Angeles. 3. Jacobsen Pilot Service for the Port of Long Beach. 14 Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) A VTS is in operation on the approaches to Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors. Operated jointly by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Marine Exchange, the VTS provides information about commercial, other vessel traffic and navigation safety. Covered vessels are required to participate in the VTS. The following are considered Covered Mandatory Full Participant vessels: 1. Every power-driven vessel of 40 meters (131 feet) or more in length, while navigating. 2. Commercial vessels 8 meters (26 feet) or more in length that are towing alongside, astern or by pushing ahead. 3. Every vessel certificated to carry 50 or more passengers for hire, while engaged in trade, under sail or power. The following are considered Mandatory Passive Participants : Every power-driven vessel 20 meters (65 feet) or more in length, every vessel 100 gross tons or more carrying one or more passengers for hire and every dredge or floating plant are required to monitor Channel 14 VHF/FM when operating in the VTS area.
Notes of Interest 1. The outer limit of the VTS AOR is defined by a 25-nm arc from Point Fermin (LAT 33 42.3 N, 118 17.6 W). 2. A minimum vessel separation of 1/4 nm is required in the Precautionary Area. 3. Code of Federal Regulations, CFR 33, Part 165, Subsection 165.1109, identifies portions of the Precautionary Area as a Regulated Navigation Area. Arriving Vessels Upon Entering the 25-Mile Outer Limit Call San Pedro Traffic on VHF/FM Channel 14 and provide the following information: 1. Vessel name/call sign 2. Position, course and speed 3. Vessel destination 4. State whether or not taking a pilot 5. Estimated time of arrival to the breakwater/anchorage 6. Tank vessels report their displacement Contact Los Angeles Pilots on Channel 73 or Long Beach Pilots on Channel 12 to arrange pilot service. Limit speed to 12 knots or less upon entry to the Precautionary Area. Upon Entering the Precautionary Area Call San Pedro Traffic and provide the following information: 1. Confirm vessel speed is 12 knots or less. 2. Confirm master is on the bridge. 3. Confirm vessel is in hand steering. 4. Confirm main propulsion has been successfully tested ahead and astern. 5. Maintain a minimum vessel separation of 1/4 nm. 15
Departing Vessels from Inside the Breakwater 15 minutes prior to getting underway, contact Los Angeles Pilots on Channel 73 or Long Beach Pilots on Channel 12 (depending on which harbor the vessel is in) to check into the traffic system. Provide vessel name, type, departure point, destination and intended route. 15 minutes prior to the breakwater entrance, call San Pedro Traffic on VHF/FM Channel 14. Breakwater entrances include Los Angeles Gate (LA), Long Beach Gate (LB) and Anaheim Bay (Naval Weapons Support Facility, Seal Beach). Provide the following: 1. Vessel name/call sign 2. Destination 3. Acknowledge VTS traffic report 4. Report departure from Precautionary Area to VTS 5. If outbound, ETA to 25 nm from Point Fermin 6. Report departure from VTS at 25 nm limit Maintain speed at 12 knots or less through Precautionary Area. Sea Approaches CAUTION The Master s attention is directed to NOAA Chart nos. 18746 & 18749 or BA 1063 & 1082 regarding regulations for: 1. Passage of Los Angeles and Long Beach sea buoys 2. Transit of Los Angeles and Long Beach pilot boarding areas 3. Anchorage G, outside the Breakwater 16
VESSEL SPEED LIMITS These speed restrictions do not preclude the master or pilot from adjusting speeds to avoid or mitigate unsafe conditions. Weather, vessel-maneuvering characteristics, traffic density, construction/ dredging and other possible items should also be taken into account. Tank Vessels Precautionary area (approach to port).................12.0 kts Within pilot operating areas and anywhere inside the breakwater (except where lower speed limits apply): 60,000 displacement tons or less....................... 8.0 kts Greater than 60,000 displacement tons.................6.0 kts Other Than Tank Vessels Precautionary area (approach to port):................ 12.0 kts Los Angeles (Port of Los Angeles Tariff): Outer Harbor (between the breakwater and Reservation Point) if draft is greater than 1.5 meters:......................... 10.0 kts Everywhere else in the harbor........................6.0 kts See Port Tariff for speed limits for vessels that have drafts of 5 feet or 1.5 meters or less. Port of Los Angeles Tariff No.4 is available online at: www. portoflosangeles.org Long Beach (Port of Long Beach Tariff): Within the Main Channel between the breakwater entrance and Long Beach Channel Lights............................ 10.0 kts Everywhere else in the harbor:........................6.0 kts 17
18 INCLEMENT WEATHER STANDARDS OF CARE FOR VESSEL MOVEMENTS Inclement weather requires heightened awareness and vigilance. This section is intended to provide clear guidance to mariners as to what is expected of them when navigating in inclement weather in the area covered by the LALB Harbor Safety Plan. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the master of a vessel to commence a transit during inclement weather, nor does this section replace compliance with the COLREGS. It is recognized; however, under certain circumstances, vessels may safely transit during inclement weather provided that equivalent safety levels are applied. This section defines inclement weather (both reduced visibility and high winds), provides guidance for determining whether or not to commence a vessel transit, and outlines minimum equivalent safety levels to be applied when transiting during inclement weather. Standards of Care for Vessel Movements During Reduced Visibility Reduced visibility requires that all mariners apply extra vigilant attention. This section is intended to provide clear guidance to mariners as to what is expected of them when navigating in reduced visibility in the area covered by the HSP. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the Master of a vessel to commence a transit in reduced visibility, nor does this section replace compliance with COLREGS. It is recognized, however, that under certain circumstances, vessels may safely transit in reduced visibility provided that equivalent safety levels are employed. This section defines reduced visibility, provides guidance for use in determining whether or not to commence a vessel transit and outlines minimum equivalent levels of safety to be used when transiting in reduced visibility. Background It is important to understand the dynamics of the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and their vessel traffic systems in order to anticipate what is expected from all levels of port users. Under a memorandum of agreement, vessel traffic management in the LA-LB area is divided into 3 zones handled by separate vessel traffic centers (VTC). The jointly operated Southern California Marine Exchange / Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service functions as the VTC for traffic outside the federal breakwater, and out to 25 nautical miles from Point Fermin. Each respective pilot station (LA and LB) function as the VTC s for traffic inside the breakwater.
Definition of Inclement Weather High Winds: Whenever the National Weather Service issues a small craft advisory for sustained winds of 21 to 33 knots potentially in combination with wave heights exceeding 10 feet (or wave steepness values exceeding local thresholds). Restricted Visibility: Whenever conditions of visibility fall below the following: a. Tankers 150,000 DWT or greater: 1 nautical mile b. Tankers greater than 60,000 DWT, but less than 150,000 DWT:.75 nautical mile c. All other vessels 45 draft or more:.75 nautical mile d. All other tankers and petroleum barges:.5 nautical mile e. All other vessels: 3 times vessel s LOA f. All other vessels: 3 times vessel s LOA Guidelines for Commencing a Transit During Inclement Weather Vessel characteristics, navigational equipment and the availability of shoreside support must be considered when a movement is undertaken during inclement weather. Conditions of visibility and wind can vary considerably throughout the port complex at any given time and may impact the decision to proceed. While specific movement parameters are difficult, if not impossible, to define, it is recommended that mariners carefully consider commencing vessel movements inside the federal breakwater when conditions reach the defined thresholds listed above. Piloted Vessel Guidelines General: When inclement weather exists along a vessel s intended route: a. The respective pilot station management will be notified, and b. Prior to commencing a transit, the operating pilot will conduct a risk analysis that includes consultation with a second pilot. This expanded participation is a key risk reduction measure. Reduced Visibility: a. When visibility inside the federal breakwater is less than 0.5 mile, the respective vessel traffic center (VTC) will impose one-way traffic restrictions when and where appropriate. 19
b. When commencing a vessel movement in reduced visibility, as defined above, shoreside radar assistance and carry-on enhanced navigational tools such as a Portable Pilot Unit (PPU) shall be readily available for use. c. When reduced visibility is encountered after commencing a transit, the operating pilot should take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of collision. Precautions may include but are not limited to continuing the transit or anchoring, reducing speed, enlisting shore-based radar support and securing additional tug assistance. High Winds: Vessel movements will proceed on a case by case basis. Depending on direction and force of wind, type and characteristics of the vessel, movements requiring more than 50 tons of force to hold the vessel against a wind on the beam shall be carefully considered. Below are examples of wind velocities acting on corresponding sail areas that would require 50 tons of counter force exerted by tugs and/or thrusters [formula: (total area/1000) x (V2/18) = wind effect in tons where V is the wind speed in meters/second]: a. 1000 square meters 60 knot b. 5000 square meters - 28 knots, and c. 10000 square meters - 18 knots Non-Piloted Vessel Guidelines It is recommended that all vessels develop, and follow, their own internal operating guidelines for inclement weather transits, including a provision for second opinion consultation. Application of Equivalent Safety Levels When a vessel master intends to commence a transit during inclement weather, at a minimum, the following equivalent safety levels should be adhered to: a. Vessels 1600 GT or greater: i. When operating inside the federal breakwater be under the control of a USCG licensed pilot with the appropriate endorsement for the vessel and area of operation, and ii. Have shore-based radar immediately available to assist the vessel. b. All vessel masters and pilots (if employed) should make a positive evaluation of the following: i The number of vessels transiting within the harbor and expected traffic concentrations, ii. Planned transit speeds appropriate for the prevailing conditions, 20
iii. The maneuvering characteristics of the vessel, iv. The quality of the vessel s radar and navigation systems v. The vessel s size and draft in relation to the area to be transited, vi. Number, type and power of assist tugs, vii. Number and power of bow/stern thrusters available, viii. Maneuvering room at various stages of the transit, ix. Quality of the vessel s bridge team x. Special circumstances to be encountered (e.g. dredging projects, obstructions). xi. Wind direction in relation to planned maneuvers. Captain of the Port (COTP) Notification of Intention to Move in Inclement Weather Without Applying Equivalent Safety Levels Vessels 1600 GT or greater, that intend to commence a vessel transit during inclement weather without complying with the Application of Equivalent Safety Levels section above (including shore based radar support) shall make the following broadcast to the VTC on VHF Channel 14 at least 15 minutes prior to getting underway: Vessel name/call sign, making our inclement weather Captain of the Port notification, as per guidance within the Harbor Safety Plan, that we intend to transit from vessel location to intended destination. In addition a safety broadcast will be made on Channel 13 and the vessel will coordinate its movement with the appropriate vessel traffic center. Summary of Other Existing Measures The following are non-encompassing examples of regulations or internal standards of care already followed by entities within the port during inclement weather: a. Federal Anchorage Regulations under 33 CFR 110.210, require all vessels greater than 1600 gross tons to have a licensed deck officer on watch at all times and to maintain a continuous radio listening watch. When wind conditions exceed 40 knots, these vessels shall ensure their propulsion plant is placed in immediate standby and a second anchor is made ready to let go. Vessels unable to comply are required to notify the COTP and may be required to have stand-by tugs. 21
b. When winds exceed 40 knots, the VTC will maintain a heightened awareness for dragging anchors in the federal anchorages. c. The VTC will notify users of low visibility conditions (<1 nautical mile) along their intended track(s) outside the breakwater and advise them of targets they may encounter. d. The following organizations have their own internal guidelines for inclement weather: i. Pilots: Pilot Operations Manuals prescribe a variety of criteria specific to vessel size and berth / port area. ii. Ferry operators: High Speed Craft Operations Manuals contain guidance on wave heights. iii. Small passenger vessels: some of these vessels have internal guidelines to curtail operations in heavy winds. iv. Facilities regulated under 33 CFR Part 154 have wind criteria in their individual operations manuals for ceasing cargo operations and disconnecting cargo transfer equipment. In addition, the state of California has specific Marine Oil Terminal Engineering and Maintenance Standards (MOTEMS) which include inclement weather guidelines. 22
400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 WIND FORCE CHART Force necessary to counter lateral wind pressure Wind Force in Tons A B C D E F G H J K L 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Wind Speed in Meters/Seconds** **Meter/Seconds x 2 = Knots I Tons Square Meters A B C D E F G H K L 12,000 11,000 10,000 9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 I J 23
TUG ESCORT/ASSISTANCE FOR TANK VESSELS Overview Tug Escort refers to the stationing of tugs in proximity of a vessel as it transits into port to provide immediate assistance should a steering or propulsion failure develop. Tug Assist refers to the positioning of tugs alongside a vessel and applying force to assist in making turns, reducing speed, providing propulsion and docking. Additional assist tugs may be required inside the breakwater. Arrangements should be made via the vessel agent, tug company and appropriate pilot service. Outbound laden tank vessels are not required to use tugs once they have safely cleared the breakwater. All tank vessels shifting within the harbor(s) (including dock to anchor, anchor to anchor and dock to dock) shall comply with the escort requirements. Arrangements should be made via the vessel agent, tug company or appropriate pilot service to ensure compliance. 24 Tug Escort Applicability All laden tank vessels (tankers or barges carrying as cargo a total volume of oil greater than or equal to 5,000 long tons of oil) entering the port should ensure proper implementation of the Displacement Ton/Tug Braking Force Table listed on page 18. In addition, to meet the requirements of the Force Selection Matrix, tractor tugs shall be tethered, inbound and outbound. Conventional tugs may be tethered or untethered inbound, but shall be tethered outbound. Inbound, laden oil and chemical tank vessels shall not proceed closer than two nautical miles from the Federal Breakwater entrance unless the prescribed escort tug(s) are in position at the southern boundary of the pilot operating areas. Masters shall also ensure that anchors are ready for letting go prior to entering the pilot operating areas. The tank vessel Master/pilot shall hold a pre-escort conference that should at a minimum include: 1. Contacting the escort tug operator to confirm the number and position of the escort tug(s) 2. Establishing the radio frequency to be used 3. Establishing the destination of the tank vessel 4. Discussing any other pertinent information that the master/ pilot and escort tug operator deem necessary These standards reflect favorable circumstances and conditions. Adverse weather, unusual port/traffic congestion or other conditions/ circumstances may require additional tugboat assistance.
FORCE SELECTION MATRIX Tanker Displacement Tractor Tugs See Note Below Long Tons Kips Short Tons 2ND Tug Ratio Ahead Forces Conventional Tugs 2ND Tug Ratio RT2 Kips Short Tons RC2 Kips Astern Forces Short Tons 0<60,000 20 10 2.7 50 25 1.2 30 15 60,000<100,000 40 20 2.7 60 30 1.3 50 25 100,000<140,000 50 25 2.7 80 40 1.4 80 40 140,000<180,000 60 30 2.8 120 60 1.4 100 50 180,000<212,000 90 45 3.8 220 110 1.6 120 60 212,000<220,000 100 50 3.8 250 125 1.6 120 60 220,000<260,000 120 60 5.3 410 205 1.6 140 70 260,000<300,000 140 70 5.4 480 240 1.6 160 80 Note: Ahead forces for tugs using stern line (VSP); astern forces for tugs using headline (ASD). 25
26 TUGS EMPLOYED IN LA/LB NAME TOTAL AHEAD BOLLARD PULL ASTERN BOLLARD PULL HP (ADV) (Short Tons) (Short Tons) CROWLEY MARINE SERVICES INC. Admiral...4,800... 50.84... 44.72 Leader...4,730... 58.94... 45.44 Master...4,800... 51.22... 43.83 Scout...4,800... 50.61... 45.81 FOSS MARITIME Alta June...5,000... 67.10... 64.0 Campbell Foss...5,000... 62.65... 61.35 Carolyn Dorothy...3,600... 63.65... 62.70 Arthur Foss...4,000... 54.65 Morgan Foss...5,000... 63.95... 60.90 Pacific Explorer...4,300... 58.0... 58.0 MILLENNIUM MARITIME INC. Millennium Dawn...4,400... 64.25... 54.50 Millennium Maverick...4,300... 58.06... 53.29 Millennium Star...4,400... 64.60... 59.40 Tim Quigg...3,698... 49.64... 45.18 John Quigg...3,600... 49.30... 45.52 Z Three...3,700... 53.63... 50.74 SAUSE BROTHERS Arapaho...1,610... 16.01... 10.47 Laguna...1,610... 20.07... 12.83 Redondo...1,610... 16.07... 11.17 Solana...1,700... 24.29... 10.75 UNDERKEEL CLEARANCE A. UNDERKEEL CLEARANCE: Under-keel clearance (UKC) means the minimum clearance available between the deepest point on the vessel and the bottom in still water. UKC = (Charted Depth of Water + Height of Tide) (Static Deep Draft) Masters and pilots should use their vessel s deepest draft in still water when calculating UKC. Masters and pilots should apply a plus or minus allowance for the tide when calculating depth of water, and consider the following factors: 1. Vessel s trim and list characteristics; 2. Depth of the transit area; 4. Depth at the facility or anchorage; 5. Tide and current conditions; and 6. Weather impact on water depth.
In the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, actual tide heights do not normally vary significantly from predicted tide heights. Nonetheless, real-time wind and tidal height information is available on the Internet at NOAA s P.O.R.T.S. website: http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/ports/index.shtml?port=ll The master should discuss the vessel s anticipated UKC with the pilot. B. MINIMUM UNDERKEEL CLEARANCE GUIDELINES FOR ALL VESSELS: These guidelines for minimum UKC apply during normal weather for the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (POLA/POLB). Severe weather or other abnormal conditions may demand case-by-case evaluation. Masters and pilots shall use prudent seamanship at all times when piloting vessels in the POLA/POLB harbors and approaches. 1. Port of Los Angeles: a. Between the Los Angeles seabuoy and the Los Angeles Main Channel Buoy #11, minimum underkeel clearance before correction for roll and pitch is 10% of the vessel s draft. b. In the channel between the Los Angeles Main Channel Buoy #11 and a position off the designated berth, minimum underkeel clearance is: i. 1.5 (.46m) for vessels 120,000 DWT and under; ii. 3 (.91m) for vessels over 120,000 DWT. c. In the final approach to the berth, and while at berth, the vessel must always remain afloat. d. At anchorages inside the breakwater, minimum underkeel clearance is 1.5 (.46m). e. Shifts via the anchorages between Los Angeles and Long Beach, minimum underkeel clearance is 3 (.91m). 2. Port of Long Beach: a. Between the Long Beach seabuoy and the Long Beach Channel Buoy #3, minimum underkeel clearance before correction for roll and pitch is 10% of the vessel s draft. b. In the channel between the Long Beach Channel Buoy #3 and a position off the designated berth, minimum underkeel clearance is: iii. 1.5 (.46m) for vessels 120,000 DWT and under; iv. 3 (.91m) for vessels over 120,000 DWT. c. In the final approach to the berth, and while at berth, the vessel must always remain afloat. d. At anchorages inside the breakwater, minimum underkeel clearance is: 27
28 i. 4 (1.22m) for anchorages B-7 and B-11 when vessels draft is 50 (15.24m) or more; and ii. 1.5 (.46m) for all other anchorages. e. For shifts via outer harbor between Long Beach and Los Angeles, minimum underkeel clearance is 3 (.91m). 3. Tank Vessels: a. In complying with the above guidelines, tank vessels shall always maintain at least two feet of underkeel clearance until making their final approach to the dock. b. If a tank vessel operator has a company policy that allows for less than two feet of underkeel clearance during transit, they must submit the company policy to the USCG Captain of the Port for approval prior to vessel entry. c. Coast Guard underkeel clearance regulations for tank vessels without double hulls can be found in 33 CFR 157.455. The above guidelines are intended to include safety margins for sinkage due to squat and for an increase in draft due to pitch and roll during the weather and sea state conditions normally encountered in the Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors and approaches. The pilot organization management, the vessel s master/operator, and the USCG Captain of the Port (COTP) should concur with any deviation below the above guidelines. Terminal or vessel operators may require minimum underkeel clearances that are more restrictive than the above guidelines. Vessel masters should be aware of this and should consider terminal policy, fleet operating requirements, and the guidelines contained in the Los Angeles Long Beach Harbor Safety Plan when deciding upon their minimum allowable underkeel clearances. C. EVALUATING UNDERKEEL CLEARANCE: While the above guidelines should ensure adequate UKC under normally encountered circumstances of weather, sea state and vessel configuration, the LALB Harbor Safety Committee recommends that all vessel masters should estimate the anticipated UKC that they expect their vessel will encounter during the various phases of the transit, particularly during severe weather or other abnormal conditions. In complying with the above guidelines, the master should consider sea state conditions that might cause an increase in draft due to pitch and roll and plan/adjust transit speeds with regard to vessel squat characteristics. Studies indicate that swell crests and troughs affect vessel immersion (heave) when a vessel is rising and falling with swells off the
beam. However, the studies also indicate that vessels will normally experience significant and measurable roll before increased draft due to heave becomes a problem. Therefore, the sound practice of measuring roll and calculating the corresponding increase to vessel draft before entering port helps the master evaluate safe underkeel clearance. CAPTAIN OF THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES - LONG BEACH PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 02-001 LOS ANGELES CHANNEL DEEPENING PROJECT The purpose of the COTP Public Notice is to: Increase awareness by all harbor waterway users of the potential for increased risk of vessel collisions, or groundings associated with dredging operations in the Los Angeles Main Channel. Emphasize the importance of timely and accurate communication between the dredge, vessel traffic managers and other waterway users in order to minimize that risk. Ensure vessel masters and pilots have the information needed to perform safe transits and avoid surprises. Establish uniform procedures for vessel operators, dredging contractors, vessel traffic managers and other involved parties to facilitate the safe movement of vessels operating in the vicinity of the Los Angeles Channel Deepening Project. The Captain of the Port LA-LB in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, LA Deepening Constructors Joint Venture, Port of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Pilot Service, Jacobsen Pilot Service, and other representatives of the maritime industry, have developed uniform procedures to facilitate safe movement of vessels during this dredging project. This project involves dredging in Los Angeles main, east and west channels. The disposal of dredge spoils will be at Southwest Slip, Cabrillo Shallow Water Habitat Expansion, Pier 300 expansion, and Pier 400 submerged material storage site. See map on page 25. This dredging and derrick barge activity will be 7 days a week, 24 hours per day, and has the potential to increase the risk of a navigation mishap. This notice summarizes procedures to be followed by LA Deepening Constructors Joint Venture, dredge and vessel operators and shoreside vessel traffic managers for the duration of the dredging project. Nothing contained herein shall preclude the master, operator, or person in charge of a vessel to exercise good seamanship in deviating from these rules when it is necessary to avoid risk of collision, grounding or other vessel mishaps. 29
LOS ANGELES CHANNEL DEEPENING PROJECT LEGEND Dredge Footprint (-53' MLLW) Proposed Submerged Disposal Site (-53' MLLW) 30
APPLICABILITY These procedures apply to dredge operators, vessel traffic managers and all VTS active users covered vessels, i.e., power driven vessels of 40 meters (approximately 131 feet) or more in length, towing vessels 8 meters (approximately 26 feet) or more in length, engaged in towing. VESSEL TRAFFIC PROCEDURES A. PASSING ARRANGEMENTS WITH ALL DREDGES AND DERRICK BARGES: Mariners must contact the dredge or derrick barge operators to make appropriate passing arrangements at least 15 minutes prior to passing, using communication procedures listed on page 28. This advance notice is critical, as the dredge or derrick barge must take the necessary measures to allow for safe passage of vessels. B. VESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (VTMS): It is critical that all covered vessels report into the appropriate traffic system 15 minutes prior to entering the system or 15 minutes before getting underway. The Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), Los Angeles Pilots, and Jacobsen Pilot Service (Long Beach) will provide information about vessel traffic within their respective areas and help ensure mariners are informed of any waterway restrictions resulting from the dredge s location or operations. Formal procedures for vessels to participate in the VTS are published in the VTS user s manual available at www.marineexchange.org. Covered vessels not complying with vessel traffic management procedures should be immediately referred to the Coast Guard LA-LB for appropriate enforcement action. NAVIGATIONAL PROCEDURES The following are the procedures that were agreed upon by interested parties during a special navigational meeting held on September 4, 2002. All parties/mariners need to pay close attention to the Los Angeles Main Channel Deepening Project Daily Navigational Faxes to verify location of dredges, derrick barges and pipeline so that agreed upon procedures are implemented at the appropriate times during these dredging elements. To be included on the fax distribution list, contact the Channel Deepening construction office at (310) 521-1300. 31
Due to the restrictive nature of this dredging operation: One-way traffic should be utilized, slowest safe speeds should be exercised in the vicinity of work, strict adherence to limited visibility guidelines, and when in doubt or when visibility and/or wind conditions are questionable, transits should postponed until conditions improve for safe navigation. A. Vessels: COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES Dredge Florida Dredge H.R. Morris D/B Los Angeles D/B Long Beach D/B CP-28 M/V Elmer M M/V Durango All vessels will monitor VHF/FM Channels 16,13 and working on 79A and 67. B. Los Angeles Channel Deepening Project/Office: (310) 521-1300 C. VTS San Pedro: Working Frequency: VHF/FM Channel 14 Office: (310) 832-6411 Fax: (310) 832-7238 D. LA Pilots: Working Frequency: VHF/FM Channel 73 Office: (310) 732-3805 Fax: (310) 519-9189 E. Jacobsen Pilot Service: Working Frequency: VHF/FM Channel 74 Office: (562) 432-0664 Fax: (562) 432-3597 F. Captain of the Port LA-LB: EMERGENCIES: VHF/FM CHANNEL 16 Working Frequency: Channel 22A Office: (310) 521-3815 Fax: (310) 521-3813 24 HR: (310) 521-3801 32
COORDINATION PROCEDURES Dredging and other construction activities will continue in Los Angeles Harbor for the the duration of the project. Specific restrictions and procedures may vary from time to time depending on the location and nature of the activity. Therefore, the following procedures will be used to exchange information with all concerned parties. A. SECURITE CALLS: The dredge or derrick barge operator will issue a securite call on Channel 13 prior to the initial or subsequent commencement of dredge operations and immediately before retracting gear in preparation to transit to disposal site. During periods of less than one-half mile visibility, the frequency of the securite calls will be increased to every hour. B. FASTFAX: The Captain of the Port will utilize faxes to communicate waterway management or additional safety information to vessel operators, vessel traffic managers, and pilots. Normally, this system will be used for communicating one-way traffic or other operational procedures and restrictions, which require COTP LA-LB authorization. C. NOTICE TO MARINERS: The Coast Guard will continue to use local Notice to Mariners and broadcast notice to mariners to provide pertinent information to mariners. D. SUBMERGED/FLOATING PIPELINE: The use of submerged and floating pipeline will be used throughout the project duration. E. AIDS TO NAVIGATION/ANCHOR MARKERS. Due to the nature of the dredging operations, there may be times where aids to navigation will have to be temporarily removed. Mariners are advised and encouraged to review Notice to Mariners for the latest information. Mariners are also advised and encouraged to verify aids to navigation by contacting Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) or the local pilots. F. MEETINGS: Navigational Safety meetings will provide an appropriate forum for addressing navigational safety issues. These meetings will be held at 1300 hours, at the Contractor s office every third Thursday of each month. Contact the Coast Guard at (310) 521-3861 for further information and to obtain a meeting schedule. 33