The IMO Marine Safety Committee approved in 1983 a first text on ”Recommendation on Emergency Towing Requirements for Tankers” which was adopted by the IMO Assembly by Resolution A.535. This recommendation requires that tankers greater than 50,000 tons deadweight should be fitted with emergency towing arrangements at the bow and stern. About 10 years later, this tonnage number was decreased in the recommendations to 20,000 tons deadweight.