The Chamber of Shipping of America has recognized Foss Maritime’s commitment to
safety by awarding 61 tugs and manned barges for outstanding safety records, an
increase of eight vessels over 2010.
The Foss vessels were recognized as 2011 Jones F. Devlin
Awards winners at the CSA Annual Safety Awards Luncheon held this year on June
12 in New Orleans. The coveted awards are given to self-propelled merchant
vessels that have operated for two full years or more without a crew member
losing a full turn at watch because of an occupational injury.
Altogether, the Foss vessels achieved the equivalent of 274
years without a lost-time injury.
“At Foss, safety is at the very heart of what we do,” says
Gary Faber, Foss president and chief operating officer, in a company press
release. “Our company-wide commitment to safety is integral to our culture and
we strive to be always safe by continually improving our operations. We are
proud of this recognition that reflects the outstanding efforts of our team.”
“This year, we gave awards to 1,395 vessels that operated
7,015 years without a lost-time incident,” says Joseph J. Cox, CSA president. “This
extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our
seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe
operation.”
Three levels of achievement are recognized by CSA: A basic
two-year award; a three-year award; and a four-year award. Of Seattle-based
Foss Maritimes’ 61-awarded vessels, 24 received a special award that is given
annually to ships with five or more years of accident-free operation.