Safety Precautions
Prior to deployment:
Deployment should only take place in calm weather when the speed of the vessel through water is 10-13 knots. The Robot should be deployed in a manner with minimal risk of impacting the hull above the water line. The operator should make sure that the towing line is not twisted around any bodily extremities as the sudden force when the Robot submerges is considerable.
Submerged Robot:
Encountering unknown obstacles may occur during cleaning. It is therefore important that the operator maintains watch and applies good seamanship to ensure the operation is proceeding as planned. Should the Robot not operate according to plans the operations should be aborted and the Robot should be retrieved, inspected, and the operational parameters should be reviewed.
Towing line setup:
The towing line supplied by Shipshave should be configured to reflect the overall length of the vessel. Prior to first use of the Robot, the towing line should be unspooled by the operator and pulled towards the back of the ship to ensure that the towing line will not reach the propeller. Maintain 4 turns of the towing line on the drum of the winch to ensure there is enough friction.
When working with the towing line under tension the operator should keep the following in mind:
- Do not overload the towing line
- The towing line should not go over sharp edges
- Avoid shock loading the towing line whenever possible
- Keep the towing line away from all chemicals to prolong safe working life
- It is the operator’s responsibility to use the towing line in a safe manner
Winch:
The winch is electric with a rotating drum capable to exert a considerable force. When operating the winch, the operator should be mindful for moving parts and work from a safe distance. The operator should be alert and evaluate risks associated with potential machine faults. Avoid unessential personnel near the winch during cleaning.
Foreign objects:
The operator should prevent accidental introduction of foreign objects close to the rotating part of the winch.
Electric cabinet:
The operator must ensure that the door to the electric cabinet is always securely closed when connected to power and there is no danger for water ingress.
Ref. to the Winch Manual from the supplier.