The Britannia P&I Club has issued its “Crew Watch” edition, in which includes an article that highlights that accidents during mooring operations pose significant risks to both maritime personnel and vessels, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
As explained, despite advancements in technology and safety measures, the complex nature of mooring activities, combined with unpredictable environmental conditions, continues to present challenges in ensuring the safety of these operations.
The IMO has amended regulation II-1/3-8 of the safety of life at sea (SOLAS) convention, taking effect from1 January 2024. The amendment addresses mooring equipment and the design of ships constructed on or after 1 January 2024. However, it’s essential to note that these changes also have implications for existing
ships, requiring awareness and understanding of responsibilities among crew members.
In particular, the article written by Jobin Mathew, Loss prevention officer, Britannia P&I, analyzed that one of the key components emphasised in the guidelines
is the safe use of mooring equipment. Crew members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with company procedures outlined in the safety management system (SMS) and actively participate in planning and risk assessment processes. If improvements can be made, they encourage them to be discussed and procedures updated as necessary.
Mooring lines, mooring tails and associated attachments should be identified, to allow for inspection and maintenance. Always ensure the ability to correlate
each of these components with shipboard maintenance records and the original manufacturer’s certificate. Any defect discovered in lines or equipment during mooring operations or safety rounds should be immediately reported to a supervisor.
SELECTION OF REPLACEMENT MOORING LINES
When it is time to replace a mooring line, ensuring that the new line matches the specifications of the one being replaced is crucial. Various factors influence how a mooring line behaves in use and determine its longevity. The personnel ordering replacement mooring lines should understand the design specifications and criteria. If mooring lines are supplied with different characteristics from those originally planned for in the design, any deviations from the original plan could necessitate updates to the towing and mooring arrangements. In such cases, seeking guidance from your managing office is advisable.
When ordering new mooring lines, always request a manufacturer’s test certificate. It is worth noting that in certain trades, a MEG4 compliant certificate may be
required.
If you receive mooring lines from another ship within your company, ensure that you request all accompanying documentation.
..stated Jobin Mathew.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MOORING EQUIPMENT
This is paramount to ensure the safety and efficiency of maritime operations. Letting mooring lines deteriorate to the point of potential failure during usage is a risk not worth taking. Instead, your ship should establish and implement a formal maintenance plan. When it comes to inspecting individual mooring lines,
adhere closely to manufacturers’ recommendations. Look out for signs of excessive wear or damage, and establish clear criteria for condemning lines if necessary. When uncertain, don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Mooring lines are particularly vulnerable to deterioration when exposed to contaminants such as grit or paint, as well as adverse environmental conditions such as moisture, UV light, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
It is imperative to stow and protect them properly to minimise their exposure to these elements. Furthermore, poorly maintained mooring equipment and
fittings, such as seized pedestal bearings or incorrectly set winch brakes, can significantly increase the risk of mooring line breakage. This equipment should undergo regular planned inspections and maintenance, with detailed records readily available for reference. Taking proactive steps to maintain mooring equipment not only enhances safety but also prolongs the lifespan of crucial maritime assets.
