SHIP ТО SHIP TRANSFER GUIDE (PETROLEUM)

(Third Edition 1997)

For Use with Crude Oil and Petroleum Products

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Chapter 5

Operational Preparations Before Manoeuvring

5.1   PREPARATION OF SHIPS

The following preparations should be made by the masters of both ships before manoeuvres begin:

• a study of the procedures given in this guide, supplemented by any instructions issued by shipowners/organisers;

• appropriate preparations, such as the testing of essential cargo and safety equipment. Procedures of this type are described in ISGOTT;

• crews fully briefed on procedures and hazards with particular reference to mooring and unmooring;

• confirmation that each ship will be able to comply with all requirements of the Operational/Safety Check Lists (see Appendix 1);

• steering gear and all navigation and communications equipment confirmed to be in working order;

• engine controls tested and main propulsion plant exercised ahead and astern;

• ships to be upright (having no list) and at a suitable trim;

• cargo manifolds and hose handling gear prepared;

• area weather forecasts for the transfer period obtained; and

• fenders and mooring equipment checked.

5.2   NAVIGATIONAL SIGNALS

The lights and shapes to be shown, and the sound signals made, during STS transfer operations are those required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, and local port regulations. These lights and shapes should be checked and rigged ready for display prior to the STS operation.