8.1.2 The
design of RAS stations is to recognise the need to minimise the risks
to personnel during RAS operations. Wherever possible RAS stations
are to be designed for RAS operations to be carried out with guard
rails in position; where this is not practicable, alternative arrangements
for the safety of personnel are to be provided. Use is to be made
of nonslip paint and tripping hazards are to be eliminated wherever
possible.
8.1.3 Clear
areas are to be provided at each abeam RAS station. Clear areas in
the vertical direction are to be contained within 30° forward
and aft of the normal transverse from each RAS station, see
Figure 5.8.1 Abeam RAS station clear areas.
8.1.4 The
clear areas for VERTREP operations are to be agreed between the designer
and Owner. Reference is to be made to international standards for
helicopter operations and the helicopter's capability requirements.
The following are to be specified:
-
Helicopter types.
-
Underslung load
earthing equipment/facilities.
-
Range (size and
weight) of cargo.
-
Minimum clearance
criteria.
-
Lighting standards/requirements.
-
Painting standards/requirements.
-
Deck conductance
for dissipation of static charge.
Figure 5.8.1 Abeam RAS station clear areas
8.1.5 The
layout of each RAS station is to provide sufficient accessibility
for attendance, operation and maintenance of RAS equipment and systems
in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
8.1.6 A minimum
distance of 3 m between any RAS station superstructure and the edge
of the weatherdeck is to be provided at each RAS station.
8.1.7 Where
space allows, provision is to be made for the rigging of a safety
wire to which life lines can be attached. Note, such lines are to
be provided where the RAS station is designed for operations that
require guard rails to be struck, see
Vol 3, Pt 1, Ch 5, 8.1 General 8.1.2.
8.1.9 Oil
spill containment arrangements are to be provided at each RAS station
at which fuel and/or oil is taken on board or supplied for both Supplying
and Receiving Ships. These arrangements are to cater for small spills
that may occur during hose handling and connection operations. Small
quantities of fuel or oil that may be spilt are to be contained and
be capable of being discharged to a safe location and not overboard.
Attention is drawn to the requirements of the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil, 1973/1978 and
to any applicable Naval/National Regulations relating to the prevention
of oil spills at sea and in harbour.
8.1.10 Where
the Owner has specified military requirements relating to radar cross-section,
the increased cross-section from exposed deck machinery and fittings
is to be assessed with such equipment being recessed wherever practicable.
8.1.11 RAS
high points for securing jackstays are to be located at least 3 m
inboard of the deck edge and at the following recommended heights
above deck level to ensure correct catenary of RAS equipment:
- 2,5 m for liquid transfer;
- 4,3 m for solids transfer.