In our long, narrow country with its extensive coastline, seafarers are accustomed to challenging weather – and conditions can change rapidly. The winter season represents the most exposed period, as the most powerful low-pressure systems typically occur at this time of year.

Norwegian Maritime Authority issued a lesson learnt advice to the industry regarding heavy weather condition during the winter season.

Carry out necessary safety assessments

The cod fishery (the Lofoten spawning cod fishery) takes place during the most weather-exposed period and is limited in time. As a result, many take risks related to weather conditions in order to maximise their catch within a restricted timeframe.

The same applies to the lobster fishery, which additionally involved the use of recreational vessels – often with only one person on board. During this period, sea temperatures drop significantly, and prolonged immersion after capsizing or falling overboard can quickly become life-threatening.

It is therefore vital to follow established safety procedures in poor weather. Carry out the necessary risk assessments before departure and keep safety in mind at all times. Plan your voyage carefully, and update the voyage plan as conditions change.

Weather forecast

The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) urges everyone to obtain the necessary weather information for the intended route and to make appropriate assessments to ensure that the vouage does not lead to undesired incidents. The vessel must be made seaworthy before departure.

Weather information must be obtained regularly throughout the voyage to avoid being caught off guard by changing conditions. It is important not to gamble on the weather improving beyond what is forecast – it may just as easily deteriorate. The timing of forecast storms and severe weather may also shift, or the system may change direction.

A rogue wave can occur suddenly, be extremely powerful and cause severe damage. Such a wave does not follow the pattern of the surrounding waves and can arise far offshore. The single wave that strikes with far greater force than the others arrives suddenly and unexpectedly – and in darkness, it may be almost impossible to see before it hits.

Cargo securing

Securing cargo is one of the most important safety measures that can be implemented. This also applies to areas inside the vessel, such as the mess and the galley. It is essential to ensure that furniture and fittings in differend compartments cannot move and obstruct doors in the event that evacuation becomes necssary. This is vital for the safety and security of both passengers and crew.

All items placed on deck must be properly secured so that they have no possibiliy of shifting. Unsecured objects can cause serious injury to persons, or result in a shift of the vessel’s centre of gravity. If deck cargo or other items begin to move, the vessel’s stability may be compromised.

Cargo securing must therefore be monitored and re-tightened during the voyage as necessary.

Safe operation

Technical assessments for safe operation in extreme weather must be carried out thoroughly. This includes measures to ensure safe operation and navigation, such as ensuring adequate supplies of lubricating oils and fuel.

Extreme weather often presents challenges that do not occur in calm conditions. Consider and assess which risk situations the vessel may encounter, and whether these risks can be reduced through measures taken before and during the voyage.

Not all windows are fitted with storm shutters or other protective devices. Where such equipment is available, it is recommended that skylights, windows and storm shutters are closed and properly secured before sailing in poor weather, regardless of vessel type.

Although regulations contain different requirements and exemptions, it should be remembered that these represent minimu standards.

Icing

Winter conditions may involve storms and rapidly changing weather, ranging from snow to rain – and back to snow again.

Freezing rain creates hazardous conditions, both in terms of slippery decks and vessel stability. Ice can accumulate on superstructures, masts, cranes and other components above the vessel’s waterline.

As stability is reduced, wind and waves impose additional loads, and thevessel may develop a list and/or capsize.

Wear appropriate footwear, and remove ice and snow from decks and quays. Apply grit where necessary.

Take precautions

We can all take precautions when accessing decks or quay areas, and give extra thought before stepping onto decks and quays – especially in cold conditions with a risk of ice. Accidents can occur, but there are a number of things you can do to avoid a visit to the doctor or the hospital.

A proper gangway should always be used, and shortcuts should be avoided. Things can quickly go wrong, particularly when there is significant movement of the vessel.

Those with vessels moores alongside a quay should monitor icing and snowfall closely. Make sure the vessel is securely moored and that the hawsers and mooring equipment are fee from damage and protected against chafing or failure.

Review your own procedures and risk assessments, keeping in mind wind and other weather conditions that could change previous assessments. When staying in a port for a long period, you should consider if there should be crew on board, or if watchkeeping and supervision of the vessel from shore is adequate.

Strong winds and gusts are also states as causes of mooring lines parting, vessels dragging the anchor or difficulties when coming alongside. Moorings should therefore be adjusted and/or reinforced to prevent contact damage to the quay.

Increased risk of personal injury in poor weather

Despite frequent challenging weather, there is often a desire to maintain normal operation as far as possible. This can sometimes result in vessels having to enter and leave port on an unfavourable heading relative to wind and current

Some incidents have led to severe personal injuries caused by unusuallt violent vessel motions and heavy rolling. Some incidents have resulted in serious injuries due to unusually strong vessel movements and rolling.

It is also acceptable to speak up if maintenance work or routine tasks such as cooking in the galley need to be postponed due to bad weather.

Extra caution is required during rough weather and heavy seas.