BRIDGE TENDER

• Latitude: 34.2174
• Longitude: -77.8138
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Here's an overview of the specifications and description for a bridge tender, with a focus on a typical marine port context in the U.S.:

Marine Port Description: Bridge Tender

Role Overview: A bridge tender, also known as a drawbridge operator or bridge operator, is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a movable bridge that spans waterways. These bridges can be bascule, swing, or vertical lift bridges, and are crucial for allowing maritime traffic to pass through areas with roadways or railways crossing over.

Specifications:

1. Operation Duties:

• Monitoring Traffic: The bridge tender is responsible for monitoring both vehicular and maritime traffic to determine when to raise or lower the bridge.
• Communication: Use of VHF radios, marine traffic communication systems, and signals to coordinate with vessels and road traffic before and during bridge operation.
• Safety: Ensuring all safety protocols are followed, including proper signaling, communication with vessel captains, and safeguarding road/rail traffic.
• Maintenance Checks: Conducting regular checks on electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems of the bridge to ensure functional reliability.

2. Control Systems:

• Control Booth: Typically located on or near the bridge, equipped with control panels, cameras, communication devices, and monitoring systems.
• Automation: Modern bridges may have automated systems but still require manual oversight for safety and operational correctness.

3. Operational Procedures:

• Opening/Closing Process: Sequentially controlled operations to lift, swing, or raise bridge sections, involving activating barriers for road/rail traffic, signaling to vessels, and ensuring no obstructions are present.
• Emergency Protocols: Procedures for emergency stops, alarms, and liaison with emergency services in case of accidents or malfunctions.

4. Key Requirements:

• Certification: Federal, state, or local certifications may be required. Knowledge in bridge operation, safety, and emergency procedures is essential.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to perform physical tasks related to operation and minor maintenance; vigilant and responsive to quick situational changes.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in handling control systems, basic maintenance skills, and familiarity with signal navigation.

5. Work Environment:

• Isolated Locations: Situated often in isolated or semi-isolated locations; requires self-sufficiency and comfort working alone.
• Shift Work: Operates 24/7, hence rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Weather Exposure: Require work during various weather conditions, depending on the location of the bridge.

6. Communication Skills:

• Coordination with Maritime Traffic: Clear and efficient communication with vessel captains to synchronize bridge operations with vessel scheduling.
• Coordination with Land Traffic: Inform local traffic authorities, especially during significant delays or in emergency situations.

Examples of Bridge Tender Responsibilities in U.S. Ports:

1. Port of Miami:

   • Managing the Venetian Causeway Drawbridge.
   • Coordinating with cruise ship schedules due to high volume of tourist vessels.

2. Port of Seattle:

   • Overseeing the Ballard Bridge.
   • Communication with fishing and recreational vessels navigating through the Lake Washington Ship Canal.

3. Port of New York & New Jersey:

   • Operating the Bayonne Bridge, especially during high tide events that aid in large cargo ship passages.
   • Collaboration with both marine and urban traffic management systems.

Summary:

Bridge tenders play a critical role in ensuring the coexistence of maritime and vehicular/rail traffic at intersecting points of navigable waters and infrastructure. Their duties require technical proficiency, vigilance, and a commitment to safety protocols. They ensure smooth operations by balancing the needs of competing modes of transportation, while maintaining readiness for handling unexpected incidents or malfunctions.