CARGO HANDLING GEAR
TESTING OF LIFTING PLANT
Lifting gear should be tested by a ‘competent person’
1. After installation
2. After any major repairs
3. Every 5 years
Lifting appliance are usually given a static test using a proof load or dynamometer (static test)
Proof load always exceeds the SWL (safe working load) by a given percentage or weight.
Code Of Safe Working Practices states that ‘a mass in excess of SWL should not be lifted unless’:
1. A test is required
2. The weight of the load is known and is the appropriate proof load
3. The lift is a straight lift by a single appliance
4. The lift is supervised by the competent person who would normally supervise a test
and carry out a thorough examination
5. The competent person specifies in writing that the lift is appropriate in weight and
other respects to act as a test of the plant, and agrees to the detailed plan for the lift
6. No person is exposed to danger.
Lifting plant must be ‘thoroughly examined’ by a competent person (Chief Officer)
1. After testing
2. At least once every 12 months
A ‘through examination’ means a detailed examination by a competent person, supplemented by stripping the gear down for inspection if this is judged necessary
CERTIFICATES AND REPORTS
A ‘REGISTER OF SHIP’S LIFTING APPLIANCE AND CARGO HANDLING GEAR’ should be kept on board for inspection.
This register should contain:
1. The certificates of test together with reports of thorough examination.
2. Items of loose gear such as blocks, schakles, bridles, etc., should be identifiable by
a number stamped on the item and recorded on the certificate.
3. Where a lifting appliance is tested, the SWL and proof load are recorded together
with the identity and status of the ‘competent person’.
4. Details of regular inspections of loose gear by a suitable person should also be
reocrded as well as details of defects found and repairs effected.
CONDEM A WIRE - IN ANY 8 DIAMETER WHEN 10% OF THE WIRES ARE BROKEN
FOR STANDING RIGGING - STEEL WIRE ROPE (6 x 6 WPS)
FOR RUNNING RIGGING - FLEXIBLE STEEL WIRE ROPE (6 x 12/18/24 WPS)
EXTRA FLEXIBLE STEEL WIRE ROPE (6 x 36 WPS)
{EXTRA FLEXIBLE STEEL WIRE ROPE HAS A FIBRE CORE FOR LUBRICATION AND FLEXIBILITY}
[WPS - WIRES PER STRANDS]
BREAKING STRESS (BS) = 20 D2/500 SWL = BS/6
UNION PURCHASE SWL = 1/3 SWL OF SINGLE DERRICK
SAFE ANGLE BETWEEN RUNNERS = 90 (120 OCCASIONAL LIFTING)
RIGGING PLANS
1. Position and size of deck eye plates
2. Position of inboard and outboard booms
3. Maximum head room (i.e. permissible height of cargo hook above hatch coaming)
4. Maximum angle between runners
5. Position, size and SWL of blocks
6. Length size and SWL of runners, topping lifts, guys and preventers
7. SWL of shackles
8. Position of derricks producing maximum forces
9. Optimum position for guys and preventers to resist such maximum forces
10. Combined diagram showing forces for a load of 1 tonne or the SWL
11. Guidance on the maintenance of the derrick rig.
OVERHAULING THE DERRICK HEEL GOOSE NECK
If possible this operation should be carried out when the vessel is at anchor.
Before starting the job a temporary secure crutch for the derrick heel should be made so that the derrick is not left suspended on the lifting tackle.
1. Securely lash the derrick head in its crutch
2. Remove and overhaul the derrick heel block
3. Secure a purchase of appropriate SWL to a suitable position on the mast or Samson post and the derrick. A direct lift can often be obtained over the derrick heel by unshipping the derrick topping lift block and securing the purchase by a strap to the heel of the derrick
4. Lubricate and remove the vertical and horizontal pivot bolt nuts
5. Heave tight on the lifting purchase and take the weight of the derrick.
6. Lubricate, free and remove the pivot bolts. (A gentle tapping with the hammer may be necessary to dislodge the bolts
7. Unship the derrick heel and secure it in the temporary crutch
8. Clean all surfaces thoroughly and check all parts for signs of wear or hair cracks. Particular attention should be paid to the bolts.
9. Thoroughly lubricate all areas and re-assemble the goose neck are to its operational condition.
PRECAUTION WHEN LOADING A HEAVY LIFT
1. Ensure stability of vessel is adequate and maximum heel is acceptable. (Eliminate free surface) (large GM small Heel)(monitor practically during operation via inclinometer)
2. Rig extra mast stays as necessary.
3. Carefully check condition of derrick and gear before use. (Ensure free rotation of sheaves. Oil and grease as necessary. Ensure SWL of all gear adequate and have valid test certificates)
4. Rig fenders as necessary
5. Ensure all moorings taut and have men standby to tend as necessary
6. Put winches in double gear (for slow operation)
7. Clear area of the deck where the weight is to be landed of all obstructions and lay heavy dunnage to spread load.
8. Check ship’s data to ensure deck is strong enough to support load. (Deck load capacity plan)
9. Clear are of all but essential personnel
10. Ensure winch drivers competent and fully aware of who is to give directions.
11. Secure steadying lines to corners of loads
12. Remove rails if possible
13. Cast off any barges alongside
14. Inform all relevant personnel before lift begins
15. Raise gangway before lift commences
16. Use lifting points - otherwise sling it, using dunnage for sharp corners
17. Set tight steam guys before lifting
18. When all ready take weight slowly then stop and inspect all around before lifting further.
VESSEL LAID-UP JOIN AS C/O HAVE TO USE LIFTING GEAR PROCEDURE
1. Consult rigging plan
2. Or manufactures instruction
3. Rig derrick accordingly
4. Bring in a surveyor.
LATERAL DRAG (LOADING A HEAVY LIFT ON TO A TRUCK)
SIMULTANEOUSLY COME BACK ON THE TOPPING LIFTS AND LIFTING PURCHASE TO KEEP THE PLUMBLINE INTACT.
