AWO Develops Model Security Plan

Plan Aimed at Decreasing Vessel Vulnerabilities The American Waterways Operator has developed a model vessel security plan in an effort to mitigate vessel vulnerabilities to terrorist attack. The goal of the AWO Model Vessel Security Plan is to protect people and property and prevent vessels from being used as weapons of mass destruction. The Plan was developed after 9/11 by a special AWO Security Working Group, in close consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It was recently approved by the AWO Board of Directors at the association's Spring Convention in Washington, D.C. The Plan addresses terrorism prevention considerations under the categories of MITAGS Goes GREEN- Offering Designed Courses for Ship Crews on Environmental Standards, Care, and Protection. AWO President Tom Allegretti noted, "In developing this Model Vessel Security Plan, AWO continues its effort to be a constructive leader in the safety and security of the American tugboat, towboat and barge industry. We hope this plan provides AWO members with a template that they can use to develop and augment their own vessel security plans. In this way, our industry continues its role as 'the eyes and ears' on the waterways of this nation." The AWO Model Security Plan is available on the AWO Web site at www.americanwaterways.com under "Model Vessel Security Plan."