The International Group of P&I Clubs (IGP&I) has recently released a safety guide to help prevent injuries and loss of life during mooring operation.
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 reminds:
- The design and layout of the mooring deck may influence crew to take up unsafe positions just to do their job more effectively.
- Have you ever found yourself standing in a dangerous area and thought: “It’ll be OK – it’s only for a moment” or “It will be fine, nothing bad has ever happened before”?
- Mooring is a risky operation and accidents on the mooring deck can result in serious injuries and even death. Safe mooring requires the skill, diligence, prudence, foresight, and judgement of all those involved.
The International Group of P&I Clubs advises that:
- There is no room for complacency or taking short cuts when mooring.
- It is important that every member of the mooring party is aware of the risks and is familiar with industry best practice.
- Best practices in mooring operations are well established and can be found in various publications such as the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP).
- On board management must not normalize bad practice. The leader of the mooring party must lead by example.
- A toolbox talk will help identify if all members of the mooring party are aware of the risks and understand the “dos and don’ts” involved in the mooring operation.
- 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.
