Improper use of heaving line
- Safety Flash
- Published on 17 December 2019
- Generated on 16 August 2025
- IMCA SF 30/19
- 1 minute read
During a mooring operation, vessel crew were found to be using a 4-ton shackle attached to a heaving line (instead of proper “monkey fist”).
What went wrong?
The crew did not have an available heaving line with a “monkey fist”.
What actions were taken?
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Risk assessment for mooring operations to be reviewed.
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A check to be included to ensure that a sufficient number of heaving lines with “monkey fist” are available.
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In this case, at least 9 heaving lines were to be kept on the vessel (2 for use at each mooring station plus 1 spare).
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Members may wish to refer to:
- IMCA HSS029 - Mooring practice safety guidance for offshore vessels when alongside in ports and harbours
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