This International Standard specifies dimensions and safety requirements for manually operated and power-driven coupling devices used for assembling inland navigation vessels as a push tow or vessels coupled alongside by means of wire rope connections. The coupling device secures the stable positioning of the coupled vessels.Requirements for the safety to protect operators from accidents during the creation, operation, and separation of the wire rope connections of push tows and vessels coupled alongside are contained in this International Standard.It also gives rules for designation and testing.