Towing & Ship-Assist · Gear — Norman Pin / Tow Pins
Retractable tow pins (norman pins) on the after deck of a tug serve to:
- AMark the vessel's name
- BLift the barge
- CConfine and control the lead of the tow wire, preventing it from sweeping the deck and reducing girting risk✓ Correct
- DAnchor the tug
Explanation
Tow pins (and a towing staple/gunnel roller) keep the tow wire centered and low on the stern, stopping it from sweeping the working deck and limiting the transverse angle the wire can take — both safety and anti-girting functions.
Authority: Towing practice; tug equipment
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