Guiding Principles
- Restrict non-essential personnel from mooring deck during operations.
- Raise awareness of potential snap-back areas.
- Implement Mooring Safety Management and Line Safety Management Plans to ensure inspection, replacement, and retirement procedures. Inspect equipment before use.
- Plan the mooring operation prior to arrival – liaise with the port agents on expected berthing arrangements, tidal conditions and weather. Be flexible to change the plan dependent on the prevailing conditions.
- Ensure sufficient resources and supervision at each mooring location during mooring operations.
- Avoid mixed moorings - mooring lines should be of the same type and diameter of rope. If this is not possible, all lines in the same service (e.g., breast, spring, head) should be of the same type and diameter.)
- Maintain a continuous watch of moorings while the vessel is moored. Watch for emerging hazards due to tidal conditions or change of draft.
- Train crew in their responsibilities as part of the risk assessment controls. Conduct Toolbox Talks on the mooring deck prior to every operation.
- Supplement practical training with Learning Engagement Tools – “Mooring Operations” and “Invisible Hazards”
- Conduct a reflective learning exercise.
- Conduct Mooring Audits.
- Check maintenance and inspection records during Superintendent visits.