Question 1

During a towing operation, what is meant by "girting" (also spelled "girding") of the tug, and why is it considered one of the most dangerous hazards in towage?

Accepted Answer

Girting occurs when the towed vessel (or the tug itself, depending on configuration) swings or turns so that the tow line comes to bear on the tug's beam (broadside) rather than from ahead or astern; the towed vessel's momentum and the resulting sideways pull can then heel the tug rapidly and capsize it, often within seconds, before the towline can be released or cut Girting (girding) is a major cause of tug losses, particularly with conventional (non-azimuthing, non-tractor) tugs that have a fixed towing point and limited ability to resist a sideways pull. If the towed vessel (or the tug, depending on which is manoeuvring relative to the other) sheers or turns such that the tow line comes to lie across the tug's beam, the towed vessel's mass and momentum exert a large heeling moment on the tug through the tow line — and because this can happen very rapidly (the tug can be pulled over before the crew can react), girting has resulted in numerous tug capsizes and loss of life. Mitigations include using a quick-release towing hook so the line can be slipped instantly if girting begins, fitting the towing hook as far forward/low as practicable to reduce the heeling arm, maintaining a safe towing configuration and communication with the towed vessel to avoid sheering, and ensuring the tow line can be released even under load (a loaded hook may "lock up" if not designed for emergency release under tension). Masters of vessels under tow should also understand this hazard, as their own vessel's uncontrolled sheering can directly cause the tug to girt and capsize.

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.