- Draught mark reading is essential but risky if done overside.
- Recent fatalities highlight the dangers of improper procedures.
- Common hazards include falls, drowning, and hypothermia.
Reading a ship’s draught marks is an essential task for ensuring that cargo is loaded accurately and that the vessel remains stable. However, this seemingly routine procedure comes with significant safety risks that could lead to serious injuries or even fatalities if not handled correctly. In this article, we’ll dive into the dangers associated with draught mark reading, look at some recent incidents, and share best practices to keep everyone safe while performing this important job, reports North Standard.
Recent Incidents and Associated Risks
Falls from ladders, drowning, and hypothermia are just a few of the dangers out there. Tragically, some officers have lost their lives after falling while trying to read draught marks from ladders. These incidents really highlight how crucial it is to have strict safety measures in place.
- Fatalities: Maritime safety reports indicate that there have been several fatalities in recent years linked to unsafe practices when reading draught marks.
- Injuries: There have also been a significant number of non-fatal injuries reported, including falls, slips, and exposure to dangerous conditions while attempting to read draught marks.
Best Practices for Safe Draught Mark Reading
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always make sure to wear the right PPE, which includes inflatable life jackets, helmets, a Fall Prevention Device (FPD), and non-slip shoes. Having the proper gear can really help reduce the chances of injury if you happen to slip or fall.
- Use Appropriate Equipment: Steer clear of using ladders to read draught marks; instead, think about using a boat or having someone onshore take the readings and send you photos. If you do need to use portable ladders, double-check their condition along with the ropes for any signs of wear and tear. Remember, Jacob ladders are a no-go. Also, keep in mind that aft provision cranes, hose handling cranes, and deck cargo cranes aren’t meant for lifting people to take draught readings.
- Monitor Environmental Conditions: Stay alert to the environmental conditions around you. If the weather looks risky, it’s wise to postpone the draught mark reading until things settle down. Avoid taking readings during rough seas or strong winds to keep everyone safe.
- Ensure Visibility: Having good visibility is key. Try to perform draught mark readings in well-lit areas. If needed, don’t hesitate to use extra lighting to improve visibility.
- Supervision, Communication, and Support: Make sure there’s proper supervision and maintain open lines of communication with the crew while you’re reading draught marks. It’s essential to have a “safety observer” on deck while a crew member is reading draught marks over the side to keep an eye on safety procedures.
- Emergency Preparedness: If someone falls into the water, you need to have immediate rescue measures ready to go. This means having a lifebuoy on hand for quick use and having a plan for lowering a ladder to help with recovery.
- Follow Safety Management System (SMS) Procedures: Make sure to stick to the vessel’s SMS procedures when it comes to reading draught marks. It’s important that all activities are closely supervised, and that the right work permits are issued. If you’re doing any onsite work, you’ll need a Permit to Work (PTW), which should come with a detailed risk assessment. This step is crucial to identify and address any potential hazards before you start working.
- Toolbox Meetings: Hold toolbox meetings on-site before you read the draughts. This is a great way to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the planned risk mitigation measures and that they are still relevant to the current conditions.
- Regular Training: It’s essential to provide ongoing training for crew members about safe draught mark reading practices. Being well-versed in safety protocols can help prevent accidents and boost overall safety.
New Technology
Advancements in technology could make draught reading not only easier but also safer. For instance, SGS has already rolled out a draught survey tool that allows you to measure the draught on deck, eliminating the need to climb down a pilot ladder for checks.
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Source: North Standard
