Aux 2 Unit 12 Q2

The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen (COSWP) provides comprehensive guidance on the maintenance of lifting equipment, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections, servicing, and repairs to ensure the safety and reliability of these critical tools.

Here are the key maintenance procedures outlined in the COSWP:

1. Manufacturer’s Recommendations:

• Follow Instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the specific lifting equipment. These instructions will outline recommended maintenance intervals, procedures, and any specific precautions or requirements.

2. Regular Inspections:

• Pre-Use Inspections: Conduct visual inspections before each use to identify any visible damage, wear, or defects that could compromise safety. Check for loose or missing parts, cracks, deformation, corrosion, or any other signs of deterioration.
• Periodic Inspections: Carry out more detailed inspections at regular intervals, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions or based on a risk assessment. These inspections may involve dismantling components, checking lubrication, and testing functional operation.

3. Servicing and Repairs:

• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts, such as bearings, gears, and chains, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Use the correct type and grade of lubricant and avoid over-lubrication.
• Wear and Tear: Inspect and replace any worn or damaged parts, such as wire ropes, hooks, shackles, or chains, to prevent failures during lifting operations.
• Functional Checks: Test the operation of all controls, safety devices, and alarms to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Repairs: Any identified defects or malfunctions should be repaired promptly by competent personnel, following the manufacturer’s instructions and using appropriate tools and equipment.

4. Thorough Examinations:

• Periodic Examinations: Thorough examinations, which may include non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, should be conducted at intervals specified by regulations or the manufacturer. These examinations assess the equipment’s overall condition and identify any hidden defects or weaknesses that may not be apparent during routine inspections.
• Post-Incident Examinations: In case of an incident or near-miss involving lifting equipment, a thorough examination should be carried out to identify the cause and assess any damage before returning the equipment to service.

5. Record Keeping:

• Maintenance Log: Maintain a detailed logbook of all maintenance, inspections, repairs, and thorough examinations carried out on the lifting equipment. Record dates, tasks performed, findings, and any corrective actions taken.
• Certification: Keep copies of all relevant certificates, such as proof load test certificates and inspection reports, readily available.

6. Other Considerations:

• Competent Personnel: All maintenance, repairs, and inspections should be carried out by competent personnel with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience.
• Safe Working Practices: Adhere to safe working practices at all times, including the use of appropriate PPE, isolation of energy sources when necessary, and following proper lifting procedures.
• Storage and Handling: Store and handle lifting equipment properly to prevent damage or deterioration.

By diligently following these maintenance procedures and adhering to the COSWP guidance, seafarers can ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of lifting equipment on board vessels. This proactive approach to maintenance helps prevent accidents, protect personnel, and ensure that lifting operations are carried out efficiently and in compliance with safety regulations.

Who Should Carry Out the Examination:

According to the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP), lifting equipment should be thoroughly examined by a competent person. This means someone with suitable:

• Theoretical knowledge: Understanding of the equipment’s design, function, and relevant safety standards.
• Practical experience: Ability to recognize defects, assess their severity, and determine if the equipment is safe for use.
• Impartiality: No conflict of interest that could compromise their judgment.

In practice, this could be:

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

Interval Between Examinations:

The COSWP doesn’t prescribe specific intervals, stating instead that it should be done at “suitable intervals between use”. However, other regulations and industry standards provide more guidance:

• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER):
  • Lifting equipment used to lift people: every 6 months
  • All lifting accessories: every 6 months
  • All other lifting equipment: every 12 months
• Manufacturer’s Recommendations: The equipment manufacturer may specify recommended inspection and examination intervals in their documentation.

Defects That May Be Found:

Examinations should look for a wide range of defects that could compromise safety, including:

• Structural Defects:
  • Cracks, deformation, corrosion, or excessive wear in any structural components.
  • Damage to welds, joints, or attachments.
  • Distortion or misalignment of parts.
• Mechanical Defects:
  • Wear or damage to moving parts like bearings, gears, sheaves, or pulleys.
  • Faulty brakes, clutches, or other control mechanisms.
  • Leaks in hydraulic or pneumatic systems.
• Electrical Defects:
  • Damaged or frayed wiring.
  • Faulty switches, controls, or safety devices.
  • Inadequate earthing or bonding.
• Operational Defects:
  • Inaccurate or illegible markings or labels.
  • Missing or damaged safety devices.
  • Evidence of overloading or misuse.

Additional Considerations:

• Environmental Conditions: The equipment’s operating environment (e.g., exposure to saltwater, corrosive chemicals, extreme temperatures) should be considered when determining examination intervals.
• Frequency of Use: Equipment used frequently or for critical lifting operations may require more frequent examinations.
• Previous Examination Reports: The findings of previous examinations should be reviewed to identify any recurring issues or trends.

In summary, the competent person conducting the examination, the interval between examinations, and the potential defects identified are all critical aspects of ensuring the ongoing safety and compliance of lifting equipment on board a vessel.