201051 Loss of anchor at sea
Loss of anchor at sea
MARS Report 201051

One of our vessels recently lost her starboard anchor when under way. On investigation, it was determined that the spile pin securing the main pin of the 'D' shackle had come free, allowing the main pin to dislodge and causing the anchor to drop into the sea. The loss was detected at a later stage by ship's staff, during their rounds of the forecastle deck.
Corrective/preventative actions
1. Fleet instructed to inspect anchor connections at the first opportunity and report the findings to the management office;
2. In accordance with recommendations in OCIMF Publication 'Anchoring Systems and Procedures For large Tankers', Chapter 11.3, fleet instructed to spot weld the shackle pin during the next planned, gas free mode, following the company-approved hot work procedures at all times.
