Schat-Harding Launches SeaCure Hook and Training Package

Leading lifeboat and davit manufacturer Schat-Harding has introduced a new range of on load release hooks for lifeboats, backed by a training package. The SeaCure hooks are the safest on load release hooks available and are fully compliant with pending revisions to SOLAS. “We have always said that the safety of on load release hooks had three components,” explains David Torres, sales director, Schat-Harding Service. “These are design, maintenance and training. With this new hook we have designed it to be fail-safe and we have designed out a lot of maintenance by making sure there is no wear and tear on the critical parts. But like all on load release devices, every lifeboat hook has to be used correctly. That is why we have also developed a simple Computer-Based Training package to help owners ensure that their crews are familiar with their lifesaving equipment. Good training is the key to avoiding accident.” According to Torres, the SeaCure hooks, available for retrofit to all Schat-Harding brand lifeboats, are the safest available as they are the only ones to have undergone a full Failure Mode and Effects Analysis. “The whole design of this hook has been developed with safety first, from material to functionality,” he says. “Then we have run exhaustive FMEA tests to ensure there are no unexpected gremlins. We are pushing, through national delegations at IMO, for the same standard to be made mandatory for all other hooks.” SeaCure hooks have a stable fail-safe system and are available in 3.5 tonne, 6 tonne, 9 tonne and 12 tonne versions. The design ensures no wear and tear on critical hook components and no pins, fall prevention devices or additional loose equipment are required. They are user friendly, easy to understand and operate and fully compliant with IMO’s new DE53 standard. “IMO has approved the new criteria for on load hooks,” says Torres. “Now they are debating the date on which retrofitting will be made obligatory. But many owners are moving now, getting their boats upgraded before the rush. Hooks can be replaced during a port stay, the lifeboat is full recertified by us as manufacturer and the crew will be much more confident in their safety when they see both the new equipment and are able to use the very clear CBT program to familiarize themselves with it.” The CBT programs cover the operation and maintenance of lifeboats, davits and winches and of the LHR/SeaCure hook systems. “Using these sophisticated CBT programs to help crews to train specifically on our products will reduce the incidence of crew error and make seafarers safer,” says Torres. “They are an important contributor to safety and will help ensure compliance with IMO MSC 1206, and the ISM and STCW codes. They also make crews more confident when using the boats, so make drills more effective. Color Line was the first company to use these CBT programs for their crews, and they report that it is helping to improve safety onboard their vessels. We are now helping a lot more owners and seafarers in the same way.” www.schat-harding.com