9.2.2 Stranding
Explain:
- Actions to be taken if stranding is imminent and after stranding
- Discharging or transferring of weights on board to facilitate refloating
- Control of discharge of harmful substances
- Assessment of damage and control
- Refloating of stranded ship with & without assistance
- Log book entries
Actions to be taken if stranding is imminent and after stranding:
If stranding is imminent, the vessel's crew should take immediate actions to reduce speed, alter course, and attempt to avoid the stranding.
Communication should be established with relevant authorities, such as the coast guard or search and rescue coordination centers, to inform them of the situation and request assistance if necessary.
Once the vessel has stranded, the crew should assess the condition of the vessel, ensure the safety of passengers and crew, and gather necessary information for reporting and potential salvage operations.
Discharging or transferring of weights on board to facilitate refloating:
In the event of a stranding, it may be necessary to discharge or transfer weights on board the vessel to help facilitate refloating.
This can involve pumping out ballast water, transferring fuel or cargo between tanks, or offloading cargo if deemed necessary and safe to do so.
The goal is to lighten the vessel and improve its buoyancy to aid in the refloating process.
Control of discharge of harmful substances:
In the event of a stranding, it is essential to prevent or minimize the discharge of harmful substances into the environment.
The crew should take immediate actions to contain and control any potential pollution, such as by deploying booms, using available pollution control equipment, and following established procedures to prevent or mitigate environmental damage.
Assessment of damage and control:
After stranding, a thorough assessment of the vessel's condition should be conducted to identify any structural damage, leaks, or potential hazards.
Necessary measures should be taken to control and mitigate further damage, such as by closing off watertight compartments, patching or sealing leaks, and ensuring the vessel remains stable and secure.
Refloating of stranded ship with and without assistance:
Depending on the severity of the stranding and the vessel's condition, various refloating methods may be employed.
This can include utilizing tugs or other vessels to assist in the refloating process, using anchors or winches to change the vessel's orientation, or waiting for favorable tide or weather conditions to naturally refloat the ship.
If assistance is required, coordination with salvage experts and relevant authorities should be established to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Log book entries:
Detailed entries should be made in the vessel's log book or official record documenting the stranding incident, including the time, location, circumstances leading to the stranding, and actions taken before, during, and after the stranding event.
These entries should include information on communications, assessments of damage, discharge or transfer of weights, pollution control measures, refloating attempts, and any other significant events or decisions made during the stranding situation.
It is important for ship operators and crew members to adhere to the requirements and guidelines outlined in international conventions, national regulations, and company procedures related to stranding incidents. Proper training, emergency drills, and prompt reporting to relevant authorities are crucial for effective response and the safety of the vessel, crew, and environment in stranding situations.