Lifeboat accidents with on load release hooks

Transcription

1 Lifeboat accidents with on load release hooks Some thoughts for consideration and discussion Gard Conference on Lifeboat Hooks Arendal 18 October 2007 Alf Martin Sandberg, Gard AS

2 Three choices Suggestion No 1 We accept the present situation. We accept that some people will always fall with lifeboats during exercises, if they do not fully understand the release system and have not been trained to respect and understand all instructions in the maker s manual. We try to reduce the number of accidents with more demands for training and focusing on maintenance and servicing. Maintenance and training alone will not stop all accidents. As long as regulations require that the hooks should be able to be released when the boat is hanging full load in the air, someone will do just that.

3 Three choices Suggestion No 2 Or we admit that it was a mistake to make on load release systems mandatory and we develop off load hook solutions in stead. Negative consequence: In a real evacuation, if in bad weather, the ease of release of the hooks may be reduced. There are few such situations a year. Negative: It will take time to change all hooks. Positive: The accidents during exercises are stopped. Positive: People will be more willing to take part in full scale exercises and to be onboard during launching. Positive: Seamen will regain confidence in the lifeboat.

4 Three choices Suggestion No 3 Or, keep on load release hooks, but: Provide a Safe Hook Standard for all hook systems to comply with, and; Replace the whole 1. generation of on load release hooks with new models. (There are suggestions to IMO for a fading out of old hooks), and; Try to obtain a one hook type solution (For the benefit of the unfortunate seamen who do not manage to learn 72 different systems).

5 What can Flag States do? Advocate a zero tolerance for accidents during training with lifesaving means. Consider anew the need for on load release systems. Play an active role in suggestions to IMO. Carry out thorough investigations of all lifeboat accidents. Name the hook system involved in all accidents. Keep track of accident prone hooks and ban them from vessels under your flag. Instruct the Class Societies representing you for Safety Surveys accordingly.

6 What can Class Societies do? Evaluate if the type-approval processes of today are adequately protecting the seamen against fatal accidents with on load hooks. Inform name of hook when you issue warnings of accidents. Such warnings should go to IACS for maximum attention. Withdraw your approvals of accident prone hooks. Ask such hooks to be replaced before next renewal of the vessel s Safety Equipment Certificate. Train your active surveyors much better in the problems of lifeboat release hooks. Check that the Manufacturer s recommendations have been carried out before renewing the Safety Equipment Certificate.

7 What can ship owners/managements do? For existing ships: change to better hook systems. For new ships: make specifications for good hook systems. Send your crews for training. Do not save on maintenance. Engage the specialists of the hooks systems for servicing. Plan the servicing of lifeboats well in advance.

8 What can lifeboat and hook manufacturers do? Talk to each other. Create a forum for discussions. Play an active role towards IMO. Start a serious discussion on the need for on load release hooks, and if needed, for a one standard type solution. Suggest criteria for a Safe Hook Standard. Go for the best hook in the market, even if it is the one of your competitor.

9 What can P&I Clubs do? Investigate all lifeboat accidents and register on load release related accidents. Always ask for type of hook involved in an accident. In Loss Prevention circulars, name the type of hook involved. Create an International Group database on lifeboat accidents (IG covers some 95 % of world fleet) Arrange a conference on lifeboat hooks

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