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4 MASS Shoreside Interface Guidance
4.1 OBJECTIVE
The objective of this Chapter is to provide guidance on the requirements for those visiting or operating
around Ports and other shore facilities, where services may be needed during MASS activities.
4.2 SCOPE
4.2.1 The purpose of this Chapter is to summarise some of the key requirements when MASS are being operated in
and around ports. It is not an exhaustive list and does not cover all aspects but sets the initial points for
consideration.
4.3 LIFTING AND LAUNCHING
4.3.1 Consideration should be given to the following when mobilising the MASS from shore to sea:
n Are you going to offload the risks of moving/launching the MASS to a 3rd party or are you going to do it
yourself? Generally it is appropriate to offload to a 3rd party as you will not be able self-launch in a Port or
Marina unless you have in advance agreed the procedures, risk assessments and liability.
n Are all lifting arrangements (slings/strops etc) in date for test and certificates available? Your vessels lifting
arrangements need to be in date. So review the shackles, lifting eyes and anything else a 3rd party will be
connecting to. You may have to present certificates to the 3rd party. If you are attending the lift and launch
ensure that you have discussed with the 3rd party what PPE you need and the demarcation of responsibilities
has been agreed.
n Has the date of launching been considered well in advance and discussed with all involved. From experience
post Covid and during holiday periods, a number of Port’s and Boatyards in the South have long waiting times
to launch/lift vessels. Ensure you plan ahead.
n Have Pre and Post launch checklists to ensure that all critical equipment and systems are checked off.
All underwater fittings are listed and seacocks are shut.
n Contact your local boatyard and set up a meeting to go through the process before the launch/lift date. This
clarifies points of detail and ensures that all are prepared.
n Prior to the launch hold a short brief to detail your team on the post launch checks, discuss how long you
need with the boatyard team to hold the vessel in the slings at water level and how your onboard team will be
divided up and report back watertight status.
n Make sure you have a tool kit with the appropriate tools to tighten up and leak stop.
n Post launch, use your checklists to check for leaks prior to and post opening seacocks.
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