Issue date
Many of our yacht clubs operate slipways. Slipways, when not operated correctly can be dangerous.
As a result of an incident on Auckland’s North Shore earlier this year, where three people were badly hurt, Maritime New Zealand have release a list of recommendations about safe management of slipways. Clubs should read the following story and ensure that their procedure take in to account the recommendations.
Story - http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/Publications-and-forms/Lookout/Issue-29-6.asp
MNZ and others identified the following key safety messages:
- All slipways need to give clear guidance to yacht owners before they slip their yachts. Terms and conditions, including health and safety requirements, should be agreed and signed before slipping vessels. Boat owners should be briefed on how to secure vessels to a cradle, and on yard safety procedures.
- Keel design and shape need to be confirmed with the slipway, so that the most appropriate cradle can be used. This is vital to stop vessels falling off cradles. In this instance, the cradle was not appropriate for the yacht.
- Clear communication procedures must be established before slipping a vessel (eg VHF radio or mobile phone).
- Winch operators need to have clear sight of the slipway or a spotter in position.
- If yachts reach what could be considered a dangerous angle, all crew must be evacuated to prevent serious harm.
- Yards should have emergency procedures in place for incidents of this nature and accurate location information readily available for emergency services.
- It is essential to have a team of experienced people on hand to assist with slippings.
- Manning levels in the yard and on board need to be appropriate to the task.
- Yards need to have a good working knowledge of their obligations under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 – the society has obligations under the Act for the safety of yacht crews.
- Under the Marine Transport Act, both yards and vessel owners are required to report accidents/incidents to MNZ.
