3.6 Safe working load (SWL)
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee - MSC/Circular.1175 – Guidance on Shipboard Towing and Mooring Equipment – (24 May 2005) - Annex - Shipboard Equipment, Fittings and Supporting Hull Structures Associated with Towing and Mooring - 3 Towing fittings - 3.6 Safe working load (SWL)

3.6 Safe working load (SWL)

  3.6.1 The SWL used for normal towing operations (harbour/manoeuvring) should not exceed 80% of the design load as given in 3.3.1 and the SWL used for other towing operations (e.g. escort) should not exceed the design load as given in 3.3.2. For fittings used for both harbour and escort purposes, the greater of the design loads of 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 should be used.

  3.6.2 The SWL of each shipboard fitting should be marked (by weld bead or equivalent) on the deck fittings used for towing.

  3.6.3 The above provisions on SWL apply for a single post basis (no more than one turn of one line).

  3.6.4 The towing and mooring arrangements plan described in section 5 should define the method of use of towing lines.


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