Safety at Sea
Guidelines to reduce machinery failure in
diving support craft.
Before starting the engine, here are some
basic checks to follow:
Inboard Engines - Open up the boat and ventilate
all spaces, especially the bilges and engine
compartment. Check for fumes and inspect for
water, oil and fuel leakages. Check oil levels
in the engine and where appropriate the gearbox.
Switch on the main power isolator. Check the
coolant level in the heat exchanger if fitted.
Ensure that air ducts are free from obstruction.
Carry out a visual inspection of the engine
paying particular attention to the condition of:
belt drives, electrical connections, water
hoses, fuel filters and the exhaust system.
Check the bilge-pump system and particularly
that the suctions are clear. Check for debris
which find its way into the bilges and block the
pump. Have a manual pump as a back-up.
Open the relevant seacocks/cooling water inlet
valves. Check fire extinguishers are in place
and in good working order.
Outboard Engines - Make sure that the engine is
secured to the transom properly. Check the tilt
and lock mechanisms and that there is sufficient
depth between the propeller and the sea bed.
Make sure that no one is standing in the water
near the propeller and that no one is behind you
when you pull the starting cord.
Do not overchoke the engine as it will flood the
carburettor. Consult the handbook if in doubt
about the correct starting procedure.
When the engine fires, check the cooling water
telltale, if fitted, and allow the engine to run
for a few minutes before closing the choke.
General:
Make a visual check to ensure that there is
sufficient fuel for the intended voyage allowing
extra for contingencies.
Keep your engine handbook, tool kit and and
necessary spare parts on the boat. If in any
doubt about the reliability of your machinery
have it checked by an expert and ensure it is
serviced regularly.
Ensure that the battery and connections are as
waterproof and secure as possible.
Running Checks:
Allow the engine to warm up slowly. Never apply
full throttle to a cold engine!
Check that the cooling water is circulating -
Look over the side to make sure it's
discharging. With an inboard engine, check the
oil pressure regularly and that the battery is
charging. Check the stern gland for leaks.
Check the engine visually for signs of fuel
leaks, overheating and excessive vibration.
Before stopping the engine allow it to idle a
few minutes to cool down.
On Your Return:
Inboard Engines - Check the engine and ancillary
machinery for any problems or damage - Remember
to fix it before your next trip!
Close seacocks/cooling water inlet valves and
switch off the main power isolator when boat is
left unattended.
Outboard Engines - Once the boat is on it's
trailer , put the engine in an upright position
to allow any sea water to drain away. Remember
to tilt the engine before towing.
Remove the engine hood and spray the engine with
water repellent, letting it dry before replacing
the hood.
Check the propeller for any dents or nicks which
could cause the engine to vibrate. Check the
shear pin fitted.
If the engine is fitted with a flush plug attach
a fresh water hose to clean out salt deposits.
Do not run the engine without checking the
handbook, as you may damage the water pump
impeller. Check the control cables regularly for
ease of operation.
For more information, contact the Sea Safety
Department, RNLI Tel 01202 663174 or Freephone
0800 328 0600. |
