Why using unverified anti snap-back solutions can be a serious threat to safety in mooring operations
Substandard imitations of Wilhelmsen’s genuine SBA™ (Snap Back Arrestor) that lack third-party technology validation and do not perform as described should be avoided as part of safety management best practice. Mooring operations are one of the most dangerous operational activities that ship and shore personnel must carry out on a daily basis.
Safety measures are paramount
The International Group of P&I Clubs was notified of 858 injuries and a shocking 31 fatalities in mooring-related accidents over a five-year period up to 2021, providing a sobering reminder of the inherent risks.
These alarming statistics highlight the huge importance of comprehensive safety measures during these critical maritime operations. Operators should take every precaution to mitigate the risks; proper maintenance according to manufacturer instructions, regular inspections and adequate familiarization and training as described in the new SOLAS guidelines are crucial.
Furthermore, internal analysis of significant claims conducted by West of England P&I Club revealed that approximately 5% of all severe personal injuries occur during mooring or towing operations. Nearly half of these injuries are associated with accidents involving parting lines.
The SOLAS II-I Reg. 3-8 ‘Towing and mooring equipment’ was amended by the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC.102) in 2020 resulting in the creation of two new guidelines – MSC.1/ Circ.1619 and MSC.1/Circ.1620 – and the revision of MSC.1/ Circ.1175. The guidelines came into force on 1 January 2024.