Aux 2 Unit 12 Q1

The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP) does not explicitly state the specific intervals for testing lifting equipment. However, it emphasizes that lifting equipment should be:

• Thoroughly examined by a competent person at suitable intervals between use.
• Inspected by the user before each occasion of use.

Therefore, the specific testing interval will depend on various factors such as:

• Type of lifting equipment: Different types of equipment may have different recommended testing intervals based on their complexity, usage frequency, and potential risks.
• Manufacturer’s recommendations: The equipment manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines will often provide recommendations for inspection and testing intervals.
• Risk assessment: A risk assessment should be conducted to identify the specific hazards and risks associated with the lifting equipment and its operation. This will help determine an appropriate testing frequency based on the potential consequences of failure.
• Regulatory requirements: Some national or international regulations may specify minimum testing intervals for certain types of lifting equipment.
• Operational conditions: The equipment’s operating environment and conditions can also influence the testing frequency. For example, equipment exposed to harsh weather or corrosive environments might require more frequent inspections.

Who should carry out the testing:

The COSWP emphasizes the importance of having testing and inspections carried out by a competent person. This generally means someone who has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to assess the safety and condition of the lifting equipment and identify any defects or potential hazards.

In practice, this could be:

• A qualified engineer or technician from the ship’s crew, if they have the appropriate training and certification.
• A third-party specialist or service provider with expertise in lifting equipment inspection and testing.

The key is to ensure that the person conducting the testing is competent and can provide an objective and reliable assessment of the equipment’s condition.

In summary:

While the COSWP does not specify exact testing intervals for lifting equipment, it emphasizes the importance of regular inspections and thorough examinations by a competent person. The actual testing frequency will depend on various factors, including the equipment type, manufacturer’s recommendations, risk assessment, regulatory requirements, and operational conditions.

The document where details of a vessel’s lifting gear are kept is called the Register of Ship’s Lifting Appliances and Cargo Handling Gear.

This register is a crucial onboard record that contains vital information about all the lifting appliances and loose gear used on the ship, including their specifications, maintenance history, inspection records, and certification details. It helps ensure that the lifting equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and operated in compliance with safety regulations.

SWL traditionally stood for Safe Working Load, representing the maximum load that a piece of lifting equipment, like a crane or a sling, could safely handle under normal operating conditions.

However, due to the legal implications of the term “safe,” it has been largely replaced in modern standards by WLL (Working Load Limit).

• WLL is the maximum load the equipment is designed to lift under specified conditions, as defined by the manufacturer.
• It’s calculated with a built-in safety factor to account for potential variations and uncertainties in real-world use.

In essence, while the term SWL might still be encountered, it’s generally considered synonymous with WLL in the context of lifting equipment. Both terms signify the maximum load that should be lifted to ensure safe operation.

It’s important to note that exceeding the WLL can lead to equipment failure, accidents, and injuries. Therefore, it’s crucial to adhere to the specified limits and use the appropriate lifting gear for the intended load.

Here are some possible reasons for needing to take a piece of lifting equipment out of service, along with the measures to be taken before returning it to service:

Reasons for Taking Lifting Equipment Out of Service:

1. Damage or Defects:

• Visible Damage: Any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, deformation, corrosion, or wear and tear, that could compromise the equipment’s structural integrity or safe operation.
• Malfunctions: Any operational issues or malfunctions, such as unusual noises, vibrations, or difficulty in controlling the equipment, indicating potential problems.
• Overload: Evidence of the equipment being used to lift loads exceeding its safe working load (SWL) or working load limit (WLL), which can cause structural damage or failure.

2. Failed Inspection or Test:

• Routine Inspections: If the equipment fails to meet the required safety standards during routine inspections, it must be taken out of service for further investigation and repairs.
• Thorough Examination: If any defects or deficiencies are identified during a thorough examination (required by law at specific intervals), the equipment must be removed from service until rectified.

3. Lack of Certification or Documentation:

• Missing or Expired Certificates: If the equipment lacks the necessary certification or its certificates have expired, it cannot be used until the required documentation is obtained.
• Missing or Incomplete Records: If maintenance and inspection records are not properly maintained, the equipment’s safety and compliance status cannot be verified, and it might need to be taken out of service for further assessment.

4. Safety Concerns:

• Unsafe Conditions: If the operating environment or conditions pose a safety risk, such as severe weather, unstable ground, or inadequate lighting, the equipment should be taken out of service until conditions improve.
• Personnel Issues: If the operator or other personnel involved in the lifting operation are not adequately trained or competent, the equipment should not be used until proper training is provided.

Measures to Return Equipment to Service:

1. Thorough Inspection and Assessment:

• Qualified Personnel: A competent person, such as a qualified engineer or inspector, should thoroughly examine the equipment to identify the cause of the issue and assess the extent of any damage or defects.
• Non-Destructive Testing: If necessary, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as ultrasonic testing or magnetic particle inspection, may be used to detect internal flaws or weaknesses.

2. Repairs or Replacement:

• Rectify Defects: Any identified defects or damage must be repaired or the affected parts replaced to restore the equipment to its original safe working condition.
• Use Genuine Parts: Only use genuine spare parts and components recommended by the manufacturer to ensure compatibility and maintain the equipment’s integrity.

3. Testing and Certification:

• Functional Testing: After repairs or replacements, the equipment should be thoroughly tested to ensure it operates correctly and safely.
• Load Testing: In some cases, load testing may be required to verify that the equipment can handle its rated load capacity after repairs.
• Certification: If applicable, obtain new or updated certification from a competent authority or classification society to confirm that the equipment meets all safety standards.

4. Updated Documentation:

• Maintenance Records: Update the equipment’s maintenance records to reflect the repairs or replacements carried out.
• Inspection Reports: Ensure that all inspection reports are up-to-date and available for review.

5. Training and Communication:

• Operator Training: If the issue was related to operator error or lack of competency, provide additional training to ensure proper operation and safety procedures are understood.
• Communicate Changes: Inform all relevant personnel about any changes or modifications made to the equipment and any new safety precautions or procedures.

By following these measures, you can ensure that lifting equipment is returned to service in a safe and compliant manner, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the well-being of personnel and the integrity of the vessel.