43. a) Explain the role of Competent authority under Dock safety regulations.
b) What Are safety
check to be carried out prior commencement of cargo operations using Derrick.○ November
2024
here is a step-by-step explanation of the role of a Competent Authority and the safety checks
required before using a derrick for cargo operations.
a) Role of Competent Authority under Dock Safety
Regulations
A Competent Authority under dock safety regulations is defined as a minister, government
department, or other authority empowered to issue legally binding regulations, orders, or
instructions.
The primary roles of the Competent Authority are:
● Setting Standards: It establishes and enforces safety regulations for dock work.
● Authorization: It approves or accepts a "competent person" who has the required
knowledge and experience to perform thorough examinations and tests of lifting
appliances and loose gear.
● Oversight: It appoints inspectors to enforce these regulations. These inspectors have the
power to:
○ Enter any ship, dock, or premises where dock work is being carried out.
○ Examine ships, docks, lifting machinery, cargo gear, and other equipment.
○ Require the production of registers and other documents related to the employment
of dock workers.
○ Take evidence from any person and conduct inquiries into the cause of accidents,
especially those involving equipment failure.
○ Take copies of documents, photographs, and samples relevant to an inquiry.
○ Prosecute or defend any complaint or proceeding in court arising from the
regulations.
b) Safety Checks Prior to Commencement of Cargo
Operations Using a Derrick
Before commencing any cargo operation with a derrick, a series of comprehensive safety
checks must be performed to ensure the safety of the crew, vessel, and cargo.
1. Documentation and Certification
● Valid Certificates: Ensure all lifting appliances have valid certificates issued by a
competent body.
● Chain Register: The chain register (Form 99) must be up-to-date with all records of tests,
examinations, and inspections.
● Maintenance Records: Confirm that maintenance has been carried out as per the
Planned Maintenance System (PMS).
2. Equipment and Structural Inspection
● Visual Inspection: Conduct a full visual inspection of all lifting gear, including guys,
tackles, blocks, shackles, and wires, to check for any defects, wear, or corrosion.
● Wire Ropes: Wires should be condemned and replaced if they show signs of excessive
wear, such as having more than 10% visible broken wires in any length of 8 times the
diameter, kinking, crushing, or severe corrosion.
● Foundation: Check the base and foundation of the derrick for any cracks or deformation.
● Moving Parts: Inspect sheaves, guide rollers, and all rotating parts for scoring or
misalignment and ensure they move freely. All necessary parts must be efficiently
lubricated, and hydraulic oil levels should be adequate.
● Safety Devices: Ensure the hook is fitted with a securing clamp to prevent the load from
slipping. Test all limit switches for the derrick's movement.
3. Operational and Procedural Checks
● Risk Assessment: Carry out a formal risk assessment before the operation begins to
identify all potential hazards.
● Safe Working Load (SWL): Confirm the SWL of the derrick and all associated gear. This
limit must never be exceeded during the operation.
● Personnel: Ensure the winch drivers and signalmen are experienced, competent, and
fully understand the operation.
● Work Area:
○ Check that the anticipated path for the cargo lift is clear of any obstructions.
○ The landing area on deck should be clear and prepared with sufficient dunnage to
spread the weight of the load.
○ Ensure the entire working area is well-lit, and the lighting does not impair the
operator's vision.
● Weather: Confirm that weather conditions are suitable for the lifting operation. High winds
or heavy rain can make the operation unsafe.
4. Ship Stability and Mooring
● Stability: The vessel's stability must be adequate to handle the anticipated angle of heel
when the derrick takes the load at its maximum outreach. All free surface effects from
tanks should be minimized or eliminated.
● Moorings: Check that all mooring lines are taut and are monitored throughout the
operation. Fenders should be correctly positioned.
● Gangway: The gangway must be lifted clear of the quay before the lift begins.
