Deck & Cargo

Question 1

Examine Anchor

Answer 1

Verify anchor(s) are present and observe the condition of the visible anchor chain.

• Refer to reference (j), 33 CFR, or local regulated navigational area for specific anchor requirements.
• The purpose of the anchor is to secure a ship to the seabed in shallow water. Reasons for doing this can be:
• The ship has to wait until a berth becomes available.
• To load or discharge cargo when a port does not have a berth alongside for the ship.
• To help in maneuvering.
• In an emergency, to avoid grounding.

Question 2

Examine Area Surrounding Ship Hull

Answer 2

Examine the area surrounding ship and ship’s hull for traces of pollution.

• Pay particular attention to all hull penetrations and markings in the area to determine location.
• Look for hoses, piping, or any other devices that could be used for illegal overboard discharges.

Question 3

Examine Hull Markings

Answer 3

Examine hull for:
• Draft marks.
• Load lines.
• During examination of load lines, inspect the following:
- Placement of lines.
- Ensure load lines are painted white or yellow on a dark background or in black on a light background and permanently affixed.
- If ship has multiple load lines, verify the painted load line matches the certificate in use by using the free board measurement.
- Ensure different stencils were used on each side of the ship. The lines which indicate the assigned load line extends forward of the plimsol ring. If timber freeboards are assigned, ensure the timber load lines extend abaft of the plimsol ring.
• Ship name and homeport on the stern.
• IMO Number visibility. The location of this number can be in multiple spots.

Question 4

Pier/Waterside Examination

Answer 4

Check hull for insets, fractures, corrosion, wastage, and pitting or damage to the extent that it could impair ship seaworthiness.
• Ensure there are no improper repairs or unapproved appendages. Verify with conditions of class/class observations.
• Assess vulnerability of areas of hull and potential for unlawful entry/access to ship.
• Examine:
-Access ladders.
- Gangways.
- Ramp doors.
- Side scuttles.
- Windows.
- Ports.
- Mooring lines.
- Pierside bollards/cleats, if applicable.
- Cranes and hoisting gear.
- Gangway nets
- Examine hull fouling and BWM plan implementation.
- Ensure that organisms and sediment are removed from anchors, anchor chains and haws pipes.
- Ensure there is a clean hull at waterline, meaning there is no algae, barnacles, etc.
- Examine anti-fouling certificate (Tributyltin-free). Tributyltin phased out in 2008 due to its harmful effect on the marine life.