MV BLUEFIN QUALITY MANUAL - Australian Maritime College

Australian Maritime College
While the winch operator is in control of deployment to the sea floor, the crew must
monitor the movement of people in relation to hazards associated with moving plant and
warp wire deployment.
Dredge contact with sea bed
When the winch operator is satisfied that the dredge is stable and fishing, the vessels
fishing speed is adjusted (dependant on objectives of the operation). The shooting
operation is now completed.
Monitoring deployed gear
A constant appraisal of the dredging grounds must be maintained using the Simrad and
Koden echo sounders to asses bottom conditions for hook ups that may be present, this is
to minimise damage to dredging equipment, and stability issues that a pinned up dredge
induces on the vessel.
Hauling
Due to the effect of swell on the deployed dredge, and the vessels yawing motion. Warp
wire may move horizontally and vertically with extreme force.
A visual check must be made before hauling takes place to ensure that the back deck is
free from students and staff.
Once the dredge comes to the surface sufficient speed must be maintained to assist the
dredge in clearing the lower lip on the stern ramp.
Once the dredge is hauled to the top of the ramp a gaff can be used to reach the aft lifting
strops.
At this time the derrick hook will be transferred to the aft lifting strop to spill the contents of
the dredge.
Note: Extreme caution must be taken during this operation.
Once the connections are made crew and students are to clear the timber deck.
The winch operator assesses that all crew and students are clear then commences the
empting of the dredge.
Note: Tag lines must be attached to the dredge to limit any swinging and to aid in the
control during empting.
Derrick operation
To empty the dredge this will require the use of the derrick and two (2) certified lifting
strops.
Append 3.7 - Dredge.docx 3 of 5
Revised: November 2010