Required actions while at anchor

During the planning phase of the ship’s anchorage, the responsible personnel on board must conduct a risk assessment, considering all potential hazards that could endanger the vessel. These include meteorological and hydrological conditions, the distance from shallows and other objects, the poor condition of the anchor and chain system, navigational aids and shore-based markers, other vessels, as well as safety and environmental standards.
The ratio of depth to the length of the deployed anchor chain should comply with company guidelines and the technical specifications of the anchor and anchoring system, in accordance with generally accepted maritime industry standards.
Diligent monitoring and timely preventive measures to mitigate the risk of collision, impact, or grounding are fundamental principles of safe and responsible watchkeeping while at anchor. Continuous visual observation must be supplemented by all available technical means.
A precise calculation and plotting of the swinging circle around the anchor must be carried out at the very beginning of the anchorage, using all available tools. The ship’s position should be regularly determined by all available methods, with particular emphasis on fixing the position using a fixed coastal object or another stationary object at sea. The anchor chain must be regularly inspected as part of routine safety checks, with increased frequency in extraordinary situations.
A second anchor must always be ready for deployment in case the primary anchor fails. Deploying the second anchor can quickly neutralize unwanted vessel drift and prevent an accident.
The main engine and the primary steering system must be ready for use within the shortest possible time. If the risk assessment deems it necessary, they should remain available at all times while at anchor, significantly speeding up the response of responsible personnel in the event of a sudden need. Any difficulties with critical ship equipment affecting the vessel’s seaworthiness must be reported to the vessel traffic service.

Recipients: This safety lesson is intended for all participants in maritime industry.