Winch Gear
Winches, and the areas around them are particularly hazardous. Take extreme care when winch operations take place.
In addition to the general requirements outlined earlier, the following precautions are required:
The Owner / Skipper should:
- Identify the necessary safe working practices.
- Ensure all crew are trained on how to safely work around the winch.
- Keep training updated.
- Where possible, guard winches, and use automatic guide-on gear where possible.
- Use non-slip paint or decking around winch operation areas.
- Keep the area clean, tidy and free of obstructions.
- Ensure that all brakes, levers and safety devices are operational.
- Do not allow the winch to be operated without someone within reach of the controls and the emergency stop switch.
Crew in the area of the winches must:
- Be trained on hazards associated with the winch.
- Only stand in the correct (safe) position.
- Stand on a solid platform when working around the winch.
- Keep a watch where their feet are and where the wires/ropes are.
- Be aware of the dangers from vessel movement in rough weather.
- Ensure proper housekeeping standards: keep the working area clean, tidy and free of obstructions.
