Tag: hazardous weather at sea

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Measures for keeping a high sided vessel alongside in strong winds

Lessons learned UK MAIB has published its first issue of its Safety Digest earlier this year including lessons learned from maritime accidents. One case uses two examples where high sided Ro-Ro vessels were berthed alongside in strong winds and explains which precautions should be taken in such conditions.Vessel 1 A large high sided ro-ro vessel was berthed alongside in strong winds at a busy European port. The master had decided to use four headlines, four stern lines, two forward spring lines and two aft spring lines to keep the vessel secure alongside during cargo operations, a decision he based on the weather forecast available at the time of arrival.The strong offshore winds were beam on to the vessel, causing significant loading on the vessel's mooring lines. As cargo operations progressed the wind began to increase, and gust to 42 knots, which caused all four stern lines, the two aft spring lines and one forward spring line to part, and the stern to veer quickly off the berth. This caused damage to the stern ramp, and the vessel to swing across the river and ground on the opposite bank.The crew were able to close the stern ramp to prevent any further ...

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UK Club warns of the dangers working on deck in heavy weather

Suggestions for safer working on board in heavy weather conditions Working on deck in heavy weather conditions is dangerous, and should only be considered if essential to the safety of the ship and crew. Linda Wright, claims executive for UK P&I Club, reviews heavy weather incidents and suggestions for safer working in heavy weather."Masters and owners have an obligation to provide a safe workplace. Heavy seas and raging winds try to defeat any attempt to be "safe."However, if a loose anchor is pounding the hull, or unsecured nylon lines on deck threaten to wash overboard and potentially tangle in the ship's propeller, the Master must make a decision as to whether the potential danger to the ship outweighs the high risk of sending crewmembers on deck."If the decision is that work on deck is necessary, procedures must be completed for a full risk assessment. Reference to the Member's ISM guideline and the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seaman should be considered. Although this code originates in the UK, the practical advice should be reviewed by any Master or crewmember, so unexpected dangers can be planned for."Additional precautions should include:Master must approve the order for workBridge officer on watch ...

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