SAFE LIFTING OF NON-CARGO LOADS

Bringing non-cargo items, such as crew possessions, provisions or spares aboard a ship is a task that can sometimes be a relatively low priority for crews. It may be done in a hurry or with fewer or less experienced people than good working practices dictate. However, when hoists and cranes are used for any task, injury and even death are always a potential.

Common failings include poor communication between the personnel involved, disabling safety features of the lifting equipment, and exceeding the Safe Working Load (SWL) of the gear. Any of these mistakes can result in a serious accident unless some simple rules are followed.

This programme aims to alert seafarers to the dangers of failing to follow safe methods of working when using non-cargo deck cranes. It shows different examples of the type of equipment in use, referring to lifts done at the quayside, on loading from supply or other boats, as well as offshore lifts, and includes the recommended safe working practices to follow.

The training messages are appropriate to the use of non-cargo cranes, gantries, hoists, derricks, chain blocks and other lifting equipment. The programme highlights the potential hazards and dangers of non-cargo lifting, encouraging the individual to think about safety and procedure before and during operations.