Worn shoe fitting


Uniform twistlocks


and right-hand locking twistlocks are fitted with similar shaped handles, which can be the case, it is not always possible to differentiate between them once used in the same stow. Even if the stevedores are aware of the difference, any subsequent checks by other people could allow disengagement if the handles were all actuated in the same direction on the premise that some twistlocks had not been properly locked in the first instance. ISO TC104 has been considering for some time amendments to ISO Standard 3874 that will include the physical and functional requirements for various items of portable securing equipment. For manual twistlocks it is proposed that the unified direction of handling will be clockwise when viewed from above, i.e. left-hand locking.


– Twistlocks with fractured housings;


– Double cones with fractured base plates; and – Seized/buckled turnbuckles, bridge fittings.


Fixed fittings


Regular inspection of fixed fittings is also essential to establish whether progressive wear has undermined their integrity. Areas requiring particular attention include:


● Reduction in the thickness of securing points where for example a turnbuckle may have chafed;


● Wastage in the way of the key holes of deck foundations;


● Wastage and cracking of the plating to which fittings are welded; and


● Dovetail deck foundations distorted.


If a dovetail type fitting and its associated part are compatible and in good working order, it should only be possible to slide a dovetail type twistlock or locating in a horizontal direction into the deck fitting. However, if the deck fitting is damaged or its associated part is incompatible, it may be possible to lift a dovetail type twistlock or locating cone out vertically. In such an event no vertical restraint will be provided to secure a column of containers to the deck.


● Checks to ensure that the spring holding the twistlock in the closed position is in a resilient condition. If a spring loses its resiliency the cone(s) will not be held in position in a positive manner. The moving and flexing of a vessel in a seaway has been found sufficient to allow twistlocks to unlock themselves if their spring action is failing or has failed.


● No structural defects which would compromise the proper use of the equipment, e.g.


– Twistlocks with missing handles; 7


To ensure as far as possible that containers can be safely carried can be summarised as follows:


● Providing and maintaining an adequate supply of container securing equipment;


● Ensuring that they are of the required strength; ● Ensuring that they are properly maintained;


● Warranting the adequacy of the design of the securing arrangement; and


● Provision of a comprehensive stowage and securing manual, and ensuring that the ship’s staff understand the manual.


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