IGP&I: Communication promotes safe mooring

Mooring is a dynamic operation where members of the mooring party are constantly responding to a changing situation. According to International Group of P&I Clubs, the guidance has been developed as a learning aid and may be used to facilitate discussion on board. This guide can be used in conjunction with the mooring animation produced by the International Group of P&I Clubs.

The International Group of P&I Clubs (IGP&I) reminds:

• During periods of inclement weather, or background noise, verbal communications can easily be misunderstood.
• The leader should encourage ‘close-loop’ communication at all times and ensure that all members of the mooring party ask questions if in any doubt whatsoever.
• The leader should maintain a high level of cultural awareness and take into account that everyone in the team is different, and that some individuals will be less confident than others to speak up.
• Anyone standing in a snap back zone during line failure may be seriously injured, or killed, due to the very large forces involved.
• According to the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP), “the painting of snap-back zones on mooring decks should be avoided because they may give a false sense of security”. The entire mooring deck should be treated as a potential snap back zone.
• Different members of the mooring party will have different levels of skill and experience.
• Experienced members of the mooring party could become complacent to the risks while newer members of the mooring party might be inexperienced and afraid to ask questions.
• An open discussion before starting a job – the ‘toolbox talk’ – helps make sure everyone involved knows the plan. It is the responsibility of the leader to encourage discussion and ensure that all members of the mooring party ask questions if in any doubt whatsoever.
• Companies should question whether their culture promotes speaking up

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