The purpose of this code is to enable the procedure for carrying out bollard trials to be standardised so far as is practicable, in order that the results of trials carried out on different occasions should correctly reflect the comparative performance of the tugs concerned.

Such matters as the distance of the tug from the dock walls and the method of determining the mean pull for given revolutions are specified and precautions to be taken to avoid the setting up of excessive circulation in the water around the tug, with consequent reduction in slip and propeller thrust, are described.

Appendices I and II illustrate suggested methods of analysing and presenting bollard trial data and Appendix III summarises the results of model tests carried out to determine the effect of depth of water and the distance from dock wall on the recorded pull.