Research and analysis

Safety lessons: hazards of weighing anchor in heavy weather

A safety message to the shipping industry highlighting the need for clear guidance on the capability of a ship's anchoring system.

Documents

MAIB safety flyer issued December 2012

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Details

This summary concerns a decision to anchor during strong winds. The selected anchorage was insufficient in providing the appropriate level of shelter to prevent the roll on, roll off (ro-ro) vessel Norcape’s anchoring equipment being subjected to excessive loads. Consequently the port windlass sustained catastrophic damage.

The information has been prepared for members of the:

  • shipping industry

An investigation report has also been produced for this accident.

Published 20 December 2012