98043 Incorrect Repair to Windlass

Incorrect Repair to Windlass
Report No. 98043

We were heaving up the port anchor in a position where the depth of water was 60 metres. Very shortly after the report 'two on the windlass, up and down' (i.e. the anchor was aweigh) the port windlass jumped out of gear, and the port cable ran out to 11 shackles in the water before it could be controlled. The cable run out was brought under control by using the brake. Had the water been deeper, or had the ship been making way, then it is likely that the cable would have run out to the bitter end or beyond.

On investigation it was found that the windlass clutch lever locking pin was missing, and had been replaced with a bolt wrapped in a rag. The locating holes for the windlass dog clutch lever locking pin were wasted and misaligned. The substitute 'pin', was so loose that it had jumped out of the oversize holes and allowed the clutch to release. It is likely that the large amount of cable used in anchoring had exacerbated the problem.

At the next safety meeting after the incident, the problem was discussed and it was re-iterated that it is important that all staff carefully examine all equipment prior to use. Just because a piece of equipment has worked properly for some time it does not mean it will always work in the correct way. Safety locking pins should fit cleanly and securely. There should be no free play and such items should be checked every time the equipment is used.