The San Pedro Bay Marine Safety System is one of the world’s best. It has been developed and evolved over the years because of the cooperation between the users and the regulatory agencies of the San Pedro Bay. The system has many elements that all operate interactively to provide a high level of marine safety.
Vessel Traffic System (VTS) – The Vessel Traffic System functions within San Pedro Bay, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and seaward in a 25-mile radius from Point Fermin, including Santa Monica Bay. The VTS is a jointly operated and managed by the Marine Exchange of Southern California and the US Coast Guard The Traffic Separation System (TSS) is located on the sea adjacent to the coast line. The TSS allows large ships to transit the waters in separated one-way zones. It also provides navigational safety by keeping vessel apart as they approach the port complex. At the terminus of the TSS, the vessels enter into a precautionary area and are required to reduce speed. The VTS oversees vessel movement both in the TSS and precautionary zone.
Pilots – the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach require Pilots aboard all registered ships. The Pilots are highly trained.
Vessel Information System (VIS) – The vessel information system (VIS) is operated by the Marine Exchange of Southern California. This system provides critical information to those in need of marine information, such as when vessels are arriving, leaving, and the berth a vessel will occupy.
Enhanced Tug Boats – Tugs boats today are very maneuverable. This maneuverability allows the tug boat to direct its pulling or pushing power in a direct line thereby providing the vessel with more assistance when directed by the pilot or captain.
Harbor Safety Plan – This plan has been developed to assist with the safe navigation of all ships entering and departing both ports (LA and Long Beach). The plan has been developed by all marine stakeholders operating in the San Pedro Bay. The plan is maintained by the Harbor Safety Committee
Harbor Safety Committee – The Harbor Safety Committee is a state-mandated committee responsible for planning for the safe navigation and operation of vessels in the San Pedro Bay, including the port complex. The Harbor Safety Committee for this port complex is comprised of representatives from the marine community.
Tug Boat Escorts – Under state law tankers are required to have a tug boat escort when entering or leaving the port with cargo aboard. Therefore if the tanker should lose power the tug boat escort can guide the tanker away from danger.
