Anchoring is one of the many important operations coming under the responsibility of deck officers. It involves the use of critical shipboard equipment and requires high level of situational awareness. The key responsibility of the deck officer at an anchor station is to use the anchoring machinery and available man power for carrying out the operation safely and efficiently in accordance with the master’s instructions.
This article provides practical suggestions for deck officers on anchoring operations.
Anchoring is one of the many important operations coming under the responsibility of deck officers. It involves the use of critical shipboard equipment and requires high level of situational awareness. The key responsibility of the deck officer at an anchor station is to use the anchoring machinery and available man power for carrying out the operation safely and efficiently in accordance with the master’s instructions.
This article provides practical suggestions for deck officers on anchoring operations.
Communication: Proper and efficient communication between the bridge and the anchor station is the most important aspect of anchoring operations. The deck officer in charge should be thoroughly familiarised with the reporting procedures. While anchoring, it is as significant as to give clear commands to the crew members as it is to receive the same from the Master. It is also essential to update the status of the operation to the bridge, from time to time. Before starting the operation, the officer must be clear on:
1. The anchor to be used (Port or Starboard)
2. How many shackles are to be lowered
3. How the anchor should be lowered (letting go or walking on gear)
Preparation for Anchoring: Once the officer receives the command to prepare for anchoring, he must check on the following points:-
1. Presence of crew members wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for assisting the anchor station
2. Confirming the anchor used for the operation (Port or Starboard)
3. The anchor lashings and bow stopper are removed prior commencing the operations
4. When using hydraulic windlass, make sure the pumps are started prior operation
5. Check the working of Windlass and its controls
6. If bow thrusters are likely to be used during anchoring, ensure that the required ventilations are open
7. Anchor day signal (ball) is ready for hoisting after terminating the operation
8. Walkie-talkies radios to be checked
9. Ensure that ship sides are clear of obstructions
Operation
Anchoring operations are of 2 distinct types.
a. ‘Letting go’ (dropping the anchor)
b. Heaving up (picking up the anchor)
In either case, the deck officer has 3 main responsibilities.
1. Operation of the Windlass
Normally, the operation of windlass is done remotely from the controls. It is best preferred that the windlass operation is carried out by the deck officer, provided the controls are positioned near the ship’s side or in such position that he can keep a look at the anchor and its chain while operating the controls. Otherwise, it is preferred to assign the duty to a skilled seaman guided with clear instructions.
2. Visually checking the anchor and its chain
As the officer is in charge of reporting the position and stay of the anchor and its chain, it is recommended to keep a visual check on the same by himself. Any uncertainties or out of ordinary action observed during the anchoring should be reported to the Master in no time.
3. Keeping a track on how many shackles are lowered
Tracking the number of shackles lowered is done by visually observing the ‘kender’ shackle of the chain. Kender shackle is bigger in size and is usually marked in different colour patterns or numbers for easy sighting. In modern ships, the length of the chain below the hawse pipe is digitally displayed on the control panel, however it is better to have a visual check than to rely on it. If the officer is operating the windlass, a crew member can be assigned for the duty.
Remember – 1 shackle is 27.5 meters.
(*To be concluded next week)
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