9 Steering Gear, Rudder and Propeller Systems
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - MCA Publications - The Workboat Code Edition 2 - 9 Steering Gear, Rudder and Propeller Systems

9 Steering Gear, Rudder and Propeller Systems

 9.1 Steering

9.1.1 A vessel should be provided with efficient means of steering.

9.1.2 The control position should be located so that the person conning the vessel has a clear view for safe navigation in all normal conditions of loading and especially directly ahead. See also 19.6.

9.1.3 When steering gear is fitted with remote control, arrangements should be made for emergency steering in the event of failure of the control. Arrangements may take the form of the following, and be to the satisfaction of the Certifying Authority:

  • .1 a tiller to fit the head of the rudder stock; or

  • .2 a rod attachment which may be fitted to a Z-drive framework; or

  • .3 a steering oar; or

  • .4 in the case of twin screw vessels manipulation of power distribution between the drives. In the case of twin stern-drive arrangements, means should be provided to lock the drives in the midships position; or

  • .5 in the case of a vessel fitted with outboard engine(s), a means to control the direction of thrust.

9.1.4 If emergency steering is impractical, alternative safety measures and/or procedures to deal with any steering failure situation should be agreed with the Certifying Authority. (The Certifying Authority may consider the application of restrictions to the service area of the vessel.)

9.1.5 Steering systems should comply with an appropriate standard for small craft steering systems (see Appendix 13).

9.2 Rudder System

9.2.1 As appropriate to the vessel, the rudder and rudder stock construction materials, design in total (including tiller head attachments, bearings and pintles) and the supporting structures should be adequate for the operating conditions of the vessel. Recognised design standards should be used.

9.2.2 Construction and fittings should be to an appropriate standard, to the satisfaction of the Certifying Authority.

9.3 Propeller System

9.3.1 As appropriate to the vessel, propeller line shaft(s) construction materials and design in total (including shaft brackets, propeller securing, bearings, sterntube and thrust block) and supporting structures should be adequate for the operating conditions for the vessel. Recognised design standards should be used.

9.3.2 Construction and fittings should be to an appropriate standard, to the satisfaction of the Certifying Authority.

9.3.3 Refer to section 25.9.3 for drivetrain foundations and reinforcement for Offshore Energy Service Vessels (OESV) and similar operations.

Parent topic: The Workboat Code Edition 2
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