AT01 - Assistance Towing Endorsement

The Correct Answer is C. **Explanation for Option C ("E"):** Option C refers to item **E**, which is the **cross wire** or **cross hawser** connecting the two barges (in this context, likely representing a standard towing/pushing arrangement in illustration D024DG). When the tow (or push boat, if one is attached to the rear barge) is going ahead (transmitting forward thrust), the primary tension member that transfers the pulling or pushing force from the lead barge to the trailing barge is the connection that prevents the barges from separating. The cross wire (E) is specifically rigged tautly across the gap between the lead barge and the trailing barge's stern bitts (or corresponding connection points) to handle this pulling/thrusting action efficiently while keeping the formation rigid. Therefore, E is the item rigged to transmit the thrust when going ahead. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) I:** Item **I** is the **spring wire** (or spring hawser). The spring wire's primary function is to absorb longitudinal shock, maintain lateral position, and assist in slowing the tow or keeping it aligned during maneuvers, but it is not the main member rigged to transmit continuous forward thrust between the barges in this specific manner. * **B) H:** Item **H** is the **head wire** (or head hawser). The head wire runs from the stern of the lead barge (or the tug if the tug is nestled in the lead barge's stern notch) to the forward bitts of the trailing barge. While it holds the barges together, in a typical tandem push or tow rig like the one implied by D024DG, the **cross wire (E)** is the critical member across the narrow gap transmitting the primary forward force directly between the connection points when going ahead. The head wire (H) often maintains alignment but isn't the primary dedicated thrust transmitter in the same way the taut cross wire is. * **D) B:** Item **B** is the **bridle** (or tow bridle/anchor). The bridle is located at the bow of the lead barge and is used to connect the tow line (if being towed) or anchor the system. It is positioned at the front of the entire assembly and does not transmit thrust *from one barge to another barge* within the tandem formation.

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for A (I):** In the provided context (likely referencing an illustration or diagram of electrical components, specifically related to wiring or installation), the item labeled 'I' points directly to the wire or conductor that is visible on the surface or exterior of the assembly, typically referred to as the "face wire" or exposed/leading wire. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **B) H:** Item H likely refers to a different component of the assembly, such as a ground wire, a terminal, or perhaps an internal conductor, but not the primary face wire. * **C) B:** Item B usually points to a larger structural or housing component, like the junction box, bracket, or the main body of the device, rather than a specific conductor like the face wire. * **D) A:** Item A likely labels a foundational element, such as the mounting surface, backplate, or the conduit/cable sheath, which is distinct from the individual face wire itself.

**The Correct Answer is C** ### Explanation for C (Correct) Option C represents the windward approach position (the starboard side). When maneuvering near a disabled vessel in the presence of wind, the towing vessel (tug) must always position itself on the windward side. 1. **Safety Margin:** Even though both vessels are making the same amount of leeway (drifting equally to port), the tug needs the ability to maneuver freely and pull away if necessary. By approaching windward (from the starboard side), the tug can use its engines to create a gap, fighting the push of the wind. 2. **Control and Line Handling:** Position C (midships/slightly forward on the windward side) allows the tug to stabilize itself relative to the disabled vessel and maintain safe distance until the line is secured. ### Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect) **A) A and B (Incorrect):** Options A and B represent the leeward (downwind, port) side approach. This is fundamentally unsafe for running lines. The force of the wind (which is on the starboard beam) would constantly be pushing the smaller towing vessel directly into the side of the larger, disabled vessel. This creates a high risk of collision, damage, and potentially pinning the tug against the hull before the lines are secured. **D) D (Incorrect):** Option D is also on the windward side (safe side), but it is positioned too far aft (near the stern). While generally safe from a collision standpoint, the primary running line connection is usually sought slightly forward of midships (Position C) to quickly gain control over the disabled vessel’s movement and secure the initial tow line connection efficiently. D is not the optimal position for the initial approach and running of lines.