Dangers of Weighted Heaving Lines
The dangers of weighted heaving lines are widely known throughout the industry as they have the potential to cause severe injury. The United Kingdom Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued a safety bulletin drawing attention to the dangers associated with heaving lines.
The MCA ‘Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers’ Chapter 26 section 26.3.5 states:
“To prevent personal injury to those receiving heaving lines, the ‘monkey’s fist’ should be made with rope only and must not contain added weighting material. Safe alternatives include a small high-visibility soft pouch, filled with fast-draining pea shingle or similar, with a weight of not more than 0.5 kg. Under no circumstances is a line to be weighted by items such as shackles, bolts or nuts, or twist locks”.
Next time you are preparing a heaving line think about the dangers it may pose to those on the receiving end. Use a monkey’s fist or appropriate alternative.