Question 1

What is the purpose of spreader boots (the padding fitted at spreader tips), and what problem can occur if they're missing or damaged?

Accepted Answer

Spreader boots pad and cover the spreader tip where the shroud passes over or near it, preventing the shroud (or a sail, in certain trim) from chafing directly against a hard or sharp edge — missing or perished boots can allow real, ongoing chafe damage to develop at a point that's otherwise hard to inspect closely without going aloft Spreader tips are a classic chafe point precisely because the shroud runs close to or over them continuously — a boot cushions that contact, and because the spreader tip itself is awkward to inspect closely without going up the mast, a missing or perished boot can let damage develop quietly at a point that doesn't get checked as often as more accessible rigging.

Question 2

You're asked to test a deck crane grab after electrical repairs nearby. As the grab is hoisted, what should have happened first?

Accepted Answer

The area within the grab's swing radius should be cleared of personnel before the lift On the bulk carrier Fairfield Eagle, a crew member working nearby was struck and fatally injured when a grab being test-lifted after repairs swung unexpectedly. The investigation found the area should have been cleared and barriered before the test lift began.

Question 3

A toolbox talk held before a lifting operation should explicitly cover which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Who must remain clear of the exclusion zone while the lift takes place A toolbox talk exists to make sure everyone present understands the danger zones, the abort signal, and — critically — who must not be in the area while the lift happens. The RMIMA investigation into the Fairfield Eagle fatality found the toolbox talk had not made this clear.