UK P&I Club Technical Bulletin No.40
The UK P&I Club has issued Technical Bulletin No. 40 regarding Lifting equipment – shackles and other loose gear. The Club ship inspectors/risk assessors have noted an increasing lack of awareness regarding marking and certification of lifting equipment.
Lifting appliances such as derricks and cranes are subject to regular inspection, but even these items frequently cause problems prior to thorough examination.
Operators are reminded that they have a ‘duty of care’ to ensure that such equipment is examined by a ‘competent person’ and that this person has the necessary skills to effectively carry out such examinations. These skills should cover awareness of lifting accessories, visual inspection and some knowledge of what testing is required by ‘shore based’ establishments.