Risk focus: Hatch covers

This brochure has been designed to help those involved in inspecting, testing and evaluating the weathertight integrity of hatch covers in making well informed decisions, and assist owners and shipboard personnel in maintaining their hatch covers and closing appliances in line with good industry practice and standards.

Contents
Introduction
History
The International Convention on Load Lines and Weather tightness
Manufacture and design
Hatch cover design
Hatch covers and tightness
Ship movements
Key parts:
- Packing rubbers
- Bearing pads
- Locators
- Stoppers
- Draining system
- Securing mechanism
- Compression bars
- Operating mechanisms
- Hatch panels
Hatch cover maintenance
Training issues:
- Occupational safety training
- Operational training
- Inspection training
Ultrasonic tightness testing:
- Hose tests
- Ultrasonic tests
Hatch covers and due diligence
Evidence to produce in case of a claim
Main problems found:
- Common mistakes
- Weather tightness mistakes
- Mechanical mistakes
- Hydraulic mistakes
Conclusions